Can You Dig It - Season 2 EP 009 - Olympics Episode

In the "Can You Dig It" podcast episode, hosts Dan Fuller and Joe Shields discuss the historical significance of the 1904 Olympics in St. Louis, which introduced gold, silver, and bronze medals for the first time. They highlight notable figures like Martha Brown, who won three gold medals in swimming, and Albert Bond Lambert, who won silver in golf. The episode also covers the economic impact of the Olympics and World's Fair, with 20 million visitors contributing to St. Louis's economy. Additionally, they mention local Olympians like Joseph Foreman and the ongoing Olympic spirit in the city.

• Joe and Dan discuss a hypothetical cocktail made from strychnine, raw eggs, and brandy, agreeing it's too harsh.
• Speaker 1 introduces the Can You Dig It? Podcast, focusing on exploring cemeteries and uncovering historical secrets.
• Speaker 2 provides a historical context of the Olympics, noting their ancient origins and modern revival.
• Dan and Joe introduce themselves and the podcast's focus on rural cemeteries and their unique histories.

• Joe highlights St. Louis as a city of firsts, particularly the 1904 Olympics.
• Dan clarifies that the Olympic organizing committee initially awarded the games to Chicago, but St. Louis secured them through political connections.
• Joe mentions the introduction of gold medals at the 1904 Olympics and the historical significance of this change.
• Dan shares a story about a gold medal for the 110-yard hurdle sold for $545,000, emphasizing the value of Olympic memorabilia.

• Joe and Dan discuss the various firsts introduced at the 1904 Olympics, including boxing and golf.
• Dan mentions Albert von Lambert, who won silver in golf at the 1904 Olympics and is buried at Bellefontaine Cemetery.
• Joe and Dan talk about the unique challenges faced by athletes in the 1904 marathon, including extreme conditions and unconventional strategies.
• Dan highlights the involvement of athletes from various countries and the chaotic nature of the marathon event.

• Dan introduces Martha Brown, who won three gold medals in swimming at the 1924 and 1928 Olympics, and her family's connection to the Brown family of St. Louis.
• Joe shares his experiences at the Olympic Training Center and the dedication of young athletes.
• Dan discusses the historical context of Olympic training and the support provided to athletes in the early 20th century.
• Joe and Dan mention other notable Olympic medal winners from St. Louis, including William Orthwine and Arthur Stockhoff.

• Joe inquires about the economic impact of the 1904 Olympics on St. Louis, comparing it to the World's Fair.
• Dan explains the significant economic benefits of hosting such events, including increased tourism and local business opportunities.
• Joe and Dan discuss the ongoing Olympic spirit in St. Louis, including the display of Olympic rings at Washington University and other local landmarks.
• Dan mentions Joseph Foreman, who won a bronze medal in the 1908 Olympics, and his connection to the local community.

• Joe and Dan discuss modern-era Olympians from St. Louis, including Milt Campbell, Michael Johnson, Arthur Ashe, and Jackie Joyner-Kersee.
• Dan emphasizes the importance of recognizing the achievements of these athletes and their contributions to the community.
• Joe highlights the philanthropic efforts of Jackie Joyner-Kersee and her impact on St. Louis.
• Dan concludes by reiterating the significance of the 1904 Olympics and the ongoing legacy of St. Louis as a city of champions.
• Olympics Episode Introduction and Podcast Overview
• The 1904 St. Louis Olympics and Its Significance Historical Context and Achievements of the 1904 Olympics Olympic Medal Winners and Their Legacies
• Economic Impact and Legacy of the 1904 Olympics
• Modern Era Olympians and Their Contributions