America: The Story of the USA

America: The Story of the USA

Author: Liam Heffernan Language: English Episodes: 100
Hosted by Liam Heffernan, America: The Story of the USA is a deep and ongoing conversation about the forces that have shaped the nation. This isn't just a history lesson; it's an exploration of how the past directly informs today's headlines and cultural shifts. Each episode brings together a remarkable range of voices, from Nobel laureates and acclaimed historians to veteran journalists, to dissect pivotal moments and current events with nuance and depth. You'll hear discussions that connect the dots between a centuries-old political decision and a modern social movement, or examine a breaking news story through the lens of long-standing cultural patterns. The aim is to provide a richer, more connected understanding of the American experience in all its complexity. By weaving together threads from history, politics, society, and culture, this podcast offers a comprehensive and thoughtful narrative. For those who want to look beyond the soundbites and understand the deeper currents running through the United States, this series serves as an essential and engaging resource. Tune in for a consistently insightful analysis that treats the American story as the living, evolving saga that it truly is.
Episodes
Is Capitalism Killing Christmas? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:40
The tree is up, the lights are on, and the presents are (probably) wrapped. Only two more sleeps until the day when sacred, family-oriented togetherness merges with ruthless consumer culture… or, as it’s more commonly kn…
BONUS: Disney, Christmas, and 2026 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:03
In our last bonus episode of the year, I wanted to share some episodes that can get you through the holiday season, linked below, and give you a little tease of what's to come in 2026.Spoiler alert: we are going bigger,…
Why is Santa So American? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:19
Last year, I asked ‘Who is Santa Claus?’ We discussed the origins and early incarnations of the figure we now understand to be Santa through a more global lens. So this year, I want to continue this conversation, but loo…
BONUS REPLAY: The Christmas Goose & Our Favourite On Screen Santa [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:34
In this special festive bonus episode, Liam & guests discuss their own personal Christmas traditions, their favourite screen Santa Claus and what, if anything, we would change or add to the myth of Santa.Happy holidays e…
I Am... Jody Williams [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:53
This edition of the podcast is a very special one. Firstly, it’s our 100th main episode, which is astonishing, so I want to thank everyone who has played any part in making this podcast - from everyone at UEA and behind…
BONUS: The Industry of Comic Book Collectibles [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:38
In this bonus episode, comic book expert Julian Chambliss sticks around to discuss his own childhood comic book collection, and reveals the one rare comic book he wishes he could find......Special guest for this episode:…
Why Does America Love Comic Books? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:08
Comic books are woven into the fabric of American pop culture, evolving from humble newspaper strips to a multi billion dollar industry. Their stories have inspired hope during wars, reflected societal anxieties during c…
BONUS: Can a Woman Ever Be Pope? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:34
In this bonus episode, we dive deeper into the intriguing question of whether a woman could ever become pope. Plus, we discuss the current hierarchical structure of the Catholic Church and the significant barriers women…
Who is Pope Leo XIV? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:54
From the heart of Chicago’s South Side to the highest office in the Catholic Church, the journey of Robert Provost is as improbable as it is inspiring.So in today’s episode, we’re exploring the life, legacy, and cultural…
BONUS: Fannie Lou Hamer - An Unsung Hero of the Civil Rights Movement [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 3:48
In this special bonus episode, we learn about Fannie Lou Hamer, an activist and one of the lesser known heroes of the civil rights movement, who championed for voter equality in the US, and risked her own safety for just…