Although paint and public history may not have an obvious connection, they DO. Listen in to this week's podcast where the Drs illuminate public history from various angles: two examples of wh*te male public historians who are making an impact and a venue for such work -- the Smithsonian Institute and all her holdings.

Word of the Week [5:50]: Public Historian: The halls of academia are often inaccessible and locked for many. Public historians intentionally ensure that history is both relevant and useful to the public.

Phase 1 [10:14]: Smithsonian: In an August letter from the White House, the president demanded that its exhibits "reflect the unity, progress, and enduring values that define the American story." Mkay - remove and replace is the name of the game. The hosts examine exactly how US history is expeditiously being painted over with all manner of privilege.

Phase 2 [27:31]: Tad and Loki: If you've never heard these two names, you should. Tad Stoermer continues to provide hope and blueprints for disruption at the best moment. Loki Mulholland also serves up truth-telling in ways that don't require you to be grad student to understand it.

Mentioned in the Show

Letter to the Smithsonian: Internal Review of Smithsonian Exhibitions and Materials – The White House, August 12, 2025

Trump is right about the Smithsonian (the list of 20 exhibits) - The White House, August 21, 2025

White House lists 20 objectionable Smithsonian exhibits, artworks - The Hill

Smithsonian artists and scholars respond to White House list of objectionable art – NPR News

The Memo: Trump ignites new culture war battle over the Smithsonian — and slavery – The Hill

Trump vows to expand his review of U.S. museums. Can he do that? – NPR News

Trump Wants to Make Art Into a Tool of the State – The Nation

SLAVE NARRATIVES: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States From Interviews with Former Slaves – National Archives

Tad Stoermer's Substack

Loki Mulholland's Website