Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally Told

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Have you ever pondered the sheer impact of just one word? Tune in as we unravel the deeply meaningful Zulu term, Sawubona, which simply, but powerfully, means “I see you.” In episode 28, we share the transformative journey of psychologist and writer Susan David, whose life was significantly touched by this single term.

Think of Sawubona as a metaphorical embrace from your ancestors. It’s more than just a word; it’s steeped in the fabric of family, art, and lineage. So when two people meet, it’s never just a fleeting interaction. It’s an intertwining of ancestral souls, as if saying, “I see not just you, but the lineage that formed you.”

As we dive back into Chapter 5, “Living in the Past,” we explore how Sawubona shapes the friendship between our lead, Zara Vrabel, and her closest friend and colleague, Elly DeAngelo.

Links:

• Sawubona, we see you | Roche Mamabolo
• UN-HOOK from Difficult Emotions with Dr. Susan David | Being Well Podcast

Music by Laurel Violet (Artlist):

• Afterwards
• Where We Are Now
• October
• Looking Back from Here

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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Ever thought about how a river's journey might mirror our own life's twists and turns? Dive into Episode 27 of Flower in the River podcast where we muse over life's adventures alongside the ever-meandering Chicago River. Like this legendary waterway, weaving its tales of highs and lows through the city, our lives dance to the rhythm of experiences both joyous and challenging.

Shaking things up, we'll also toss you some gold nuggets on digging up family histories and sharpening those pen skills.

In this chapter, Zara continues her deep exploration into her family's poignant past tied to the Eastland disaster. Her ongoing journey of reckoning and enlightenment underscores the crucial act of embracing and chronicling our roots.

As we delve deeper into the profound impact of a tragedy that tragically took 844 vibrant lives, get ready for a soulful journey. We'll explore rejuvenation, acknowledgment, and the thrill of discovery, nudging you to ponder over the threads that weave your personal and ancestral tapestry.

Link:

• Family Search (it's free, but you'll need to sign up)

Music (Artlist)

• Without the Scars -  Kyle Preston 
• Nothing Can Stop Us - Nobou 

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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What if the family tales you never heard still echo in your bones? From Carl Jung’s dive into the Collective Unconscious to the mind-bending realm of epigenetics, there’s a world where untold stories wield their power, shaping us from the shadows.

In this episode, I delve into the curious phenomenon of feeling the vestiges of past distress and emotional upheavals without ever being on the scene. What’s the deal with that?  Dive in with as I explore how family sagas might’ve left fingerprints on our DNA, shaping us in ways deeper than lore sometimes.

Embarking on this journey, I share my personal brush with trauma and the lingering after-effects of a car accident that turned my life topsy-turvy.

I also return to Chapter 5: Living in the Past, where Zara wrestles with the cost of letting the past command her present. We’re venturing deep into the tangled webs of family history, psyche, and the enigma of our own selves.

Links:

• What is Epigenetics? - with Nessa Carey

Music:

• Song for Gigi - Amos Ever Hadani  (Artlist)

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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Picture this: you're cozied up in your favorite reading nook with a warm cup of tea in hand, excitedly turning the pages of a riveting new book - Flower in the River. But wait, what if you could enjoy this literary escapade without having to turn a single page? Yes, that's right, the book is now available as an audiobook! On that note, we'll share some behind-the-scenes stories about the challenges of home recording and introduce you to an amazing platform - Findaway Voices - that is helping authors across the globe reach wider audiences.

But that's not all. I discover a message left for my Great-Aunt Martha Pfeiffer on the Find a Grave website!

We'll take you on a trip back in time to one of the most tragic maritime disasters in the history of the Great Lakes - the sinking of the Carl D Bradley. From the chilling storm that led to the tragedy, the heartbreaking loss of 33 crew members, and the lasting impact on the small town of Rogers City - we'll explore it all. And as we delve into this historical tale, we'll also reflect on the importance of trust and faith in research, and how such events shape our understanding of the past.

And, just when you thought we were done, we switch gears and dive back into Chapter 5 - Living in the Past and into the world of workplace challenges with the story of Zara and Elly. Their struggles with unpaid phone bills, tarnished reputations, and stubborn colleagues will surely make you think about your own professional challenges. And to top it all, Zara's surprising discovery about the Eastland Disaster of 1915 will leave you with some food for thought.

As we wrap up, we'll remember the lives lost in maritime disasters and discuss the importance of resilience and mutual support in difficult times. So get ready for an episode filled with historical discoveries, personal revelations and lots more!

Music (Artlist)

• Crossing Through Life -SHYLIFE 
• Sunlapse- Rex Banner  
• One Step Closer - BalloonPlanet 

Links

• Carl D. Bradley split in half 64 years ago, causing heartache for a Michigan town
• Find A Grave
• Findaway Voices

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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Step into the past and peek behind the lens with legendary photographer Jun Fujita - join me as I continue my captivating conversation with Fujita's great-nephew, Graham Lee. We'll hear insider stories about Fujita's unique photographic style and his creative partnership with his wife Florence Carr Fujita.  (In case you missed it, please listen to Part 1 of our conversation, Through the Lens of Jun Fujita.)

Graham gives us a rare glimpse into the daily life of this innovative artist. Discover Fujita's passion for mathematics and how it may have influenced his pioneering photographic techniques. 

Stay tuned as Graham recounts his own remarkable journey - from studying the arts at Interlochen to launching a newspaper with his parents to his current role at American Girl in Middleton, WI. His diverse experiences shaped his dedication to preserving his great-uncle's legacy.

We end on an exciting cliffhanger about Graham's upcoming book on the man behind the camera. Don't miss this chance to time travel through photography, family histories, and the enduring power of art.

"So, my advice is to use Jun as a model and just live life, try things and, if we're lucky, we'll have sort of a bit of impact, like Jun did." - Graham Harrison Lee

Links:

• Graham Harrison Lee  #fujitabehindthecamera Facebook & Instagram
• Jun Fujita - American Visionary
• Jun Fujita Cabin, Rainy Lake
• The Poetry Foundation - Jun Fujita
• American Girl

Other Links:

• Flower in the River Audiobook Now Available!
• Newberry to complete acquisition of Eastland disaster collection

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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Exploring my family's history has been an extraordinary adventure, but it's bittersweet. I'm haunted by the Eastland Disaster, especially since all who were there are now gone. There is one individual who I have always wanted to meet —Jun Fujita, the courageous photographer who fearlessly captured the essence of that fateful day, July 24, 1915.

But fate has a way of weaving unexpected threads. Just a few weeks ago, I connected with Graham Harrison Lee, the great-nephew of Jun Fujita, through social media. And it gets better - I just had the privilege of interviewing Graham for my podcast. At that moment, it felt as if I were in the presence of Jun himself since  Graham had taken on the responsibility of preserving Jun's remarkable legacy. The irony of our meeting is nothing short of miraculous—a convergence of the great-niece of an Eastland victim and the great-nephew of the Eastland photographer.

Flower in the River Podcast is about to take another detour! Get ready for an intriguing investigation into the life of Jun Fujita, the renowned photographer of the Eastland Disaster of 1915. Jun was also a poet, artist and so much more. Our guide through this journey is Jun’s great-nephew, graphic artist and writer, Graham Harrison Lee. Together, we discuss the profound impact of Jun’s artistry.

We’ll explore Jun’s early days in Chicago, where he traded a potential career in electrical engineering for the pull of the camera lens. We also delve into his unbelievable knack for avoiding danger while being on the scene at the Eastland Disaster of 1915, the 1919 race riots, and the infamous St Valentine’s Day massacre. Get a glimpse into his fascinating social circle that included heavyweights like Hemingway and Carl Sandburg--and learn about The Dill Pickle Club, one of their favorite hangouts! Also, and Jun was crazy about puns and perfecting his Baked Alaska recipe!

Discover the intriguing stories of Jun’s knife-throwing abilities, his encounter with Al Capone (!), and his long journey to marry the love of his life, Florence Carr. We’ll talk about Jun’s thwarted attempt to enlist in World War I and how his influential connections helped him navigate challenging times of World War II. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to Jun’s enduring legacy, his contributions to photojournalism and poetry, and his lasting impact on countless lives.  Don't forget to tune in next week for Part 2 of Through the Lens of Jun Fujita - with Graham Lee & Natalie Zett.

Links

• Graham Harrison Lee  Facebook & Instagram
• Jun Fujita Cabin, Rainy Lake
• The Poetry Foundation - Jun Fujita
• The Dill Pickle Club
• Jun Fujita - American Visionary
• The Eastland Disaster Historical Society

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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History is not just facts and events. History is also a pain in the heart and its soul. If we tell that story with an open heart, we can leave an amazing legacy for future generations. - Ken Burns

Lots of Eastland Disaster news this week!

We're taking a little detour from Flower in the River this week to view the Eastland Disaster through some fascinating lenses.

A Tip of the Hat to the Irish
You wouldn't believe it, but the Eastland's ripple has reached the Emerald Isle! Collective Theatre in Dublin is threading this tragic tale into today's tapestry. Their show, Eastland promises to be a poignant tribute to those 844 souls lost in the Chicago River. If you happen to find yourself in Dublin on August 30, 2023, be sure to pop over to the Samuel Beckett Theatre and catch what promises to be an unforgettable performance.

My Own Theater Flashback
Reflecting on my co-founding days at The Magic Circle Ensemble, memories flood back of how we dared to tackle themes like the Third Reich and the AIDS crisis. I'm reminded of theater's magic – its power to not just entertain but to spark real, raw conversations and challenge our perspectives.

When a Historical Society and Mortician Collaborate, Expect Alchemy!
The Eastland Disaster Historical Society and Caitlin Doughty of Ask a Mortician have concocted something truly spellbinding. Doughty's documentary, The Forgotten Disaster of the SS Eastland is not just a mesmerizing account but a timeless reminder of our duty to history. And trust me, you'll want to hear the part about how the Eastland Disaster documentary stirred some unexpected controversy – stranger than fiction, I tell ya!

These creative efforts remind us of the importance of our due diligence in preserving history, as, in the words of Marcus Garvey, "a people without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture is like a tree without roots".

Find out more on my website and dive deeper into these discussions and revelations.

Links:
Ask a Mortician - Caitlin Doughty 

• The Forgotten Disaster of the SS Eastland
• Did We Really Violate Community Guidelines?

Collective Theatre (Dublin, Ireland)

• Why have you never heard of the S.S Eastland?

Eastland Disaster Historical Society (Arlington Heights, IL)

• Eastland Disaster Historical Society

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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Get ready for a thrilling ride through time, exploring how the ghosts of our pasts shape our futures. Even regrets can be useful if you know how to work with them!  Episode 21 introduces Chapter 5. Living in the Past.

Join Zara and brand-new character Elly DeAngelo as Zara excavates long-buried regrets and revisits forgotten memories. Unravel the impact of past experiences on present-day realities as Zara navigates the twists and turns of life.

Then, switch gears and venture into the daunting --and truly haunting--realm of corporate life with Zara and Elly—the endless maze of cubicles, insane hours, and the occasional disconnected phone service!

Zara pieces together the mysterious events of Chicago's tragic 1915 Eastland Disaster in a riveting historical investigation that reveals more questions than answers.

The past is so much more than mere nostalgia - it's a compelling compass that orients our pursuits and choices as we chart new courses ahead. Don't miss this fascinating exploration into the ghosts of yesterday!

Music

• Gnossienne no 1 - Romi Kopelman (Artlist)

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

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Ever wondered how the tragedies of the past can shape the inspiration of the present? Join me on an emotional journey through my family history in Trading Places, Trading Fates (Episode 20), where I delve into the haunting tale of the Eastland Disaster that forever marked my lineage. As an author and family historian, I continue to share my personal rumination on how this historical event led me to uncover my roots and find creative inspiration.

In this narrative, I take a deep dive into the tragic yet inspiring story of my great aunt Martha Pfeiffer, one of the victims of the Eastland Disaster. A simple exchange of tickets between my grandmother and Martha sealed her fate, serving as a poignant reminder of how a small piece of paper can profoundly alter lives.

Join me as I shed light on the importance of family stories and the responsibility we have to honor the legacy of our ancestors. Through the compassionate lens of Jun Fujita, we discover the heart-wrenching beauty captured in the aftermath of this tragedy.

Let this episode inspire you to start your own journey into the past, fostering courage, connection, and the uncovering of your own sacred stories. Exploring our roots can have a transformative power, shaping our creativity and perception of freedom

Links

• Eastland Disaster Historical Society
• Behind the Lens of a Trailblazing Chicago Photojournalist
• The Creative Penn 

Music

•  Driving Home - Noam Zaguri  (Artlist)

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist

Send us Fan Mail

Note: this is a special episode commemorating the 108th Anniversary of The Eastland Disaster (July 24, 1915).
Can you imagine the excitement of a 19-year-old embarking on what is supposed to be a fun-filled journey, only to have it end in one of the most disastrous maritime incidents in history? Episode 19 of Flower in the River podcast is the personal account of my family's experience with the Eastland Disaster of 1915, primarily through the death of Martha Pfeiffer, my ancestor and the young girl at the center of this tragic story. We take you back to that fateful day, the sheer horror and panic of learning about the ship's accident, and the desperate search of Annie Pfeiffer Donovan, Martha's sister, for her sibling amongst the chaos. 

The episode then takes a sober turn, as we traverse the painful aftermath of the disaster. You'll find yourself immersed in the somber tale of Annie's grim discovery at the armory, each description underscoring the unbearable reality of the tragedy. But amidst the despair, you'll also witness the strength and resilience of a family that refused to be broken. This narrative is more than just a recount of a historical event; it's a testament to the courage and determination of a family forever scarred by a devastating incident. Join me for a journey through time, where sorrow meets strength and tragedy gives way to resilience. Listen in, and share in the experiences of a family forever marked by an unforgettable tragedy. - Natalie Zett

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• Substack: https://nataliezett.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus
• Other music. Artlist