In this the sixth episode of the ‘Stories to be tolled’ blog post series you can listen in on School Leader, author and podcaster Tracy DW on her journey from writing about the British Empire to creating an expansive learning platform aimed at harnessing the power of multimedia to breathe life into her stories, provide meaningful contexts and foster understanding of complex historical narratives.

Tracy also talks about another journey: that of creativity and self-expression in stepping out of your comfort zone. Whether you're an author, educator, or simply someone with a story to tell. Tracy reflects over her writing journey, shares some advice for aspiring authors and celebrates the power of following one's passion and the impact it can have on both personal and professional growth.

 If you enjoy these podcasts then visit us for more information as well the Website Bookshop

You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways    

You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipelink or email Tracy at [email protected] 

In a world where the small things are often overlooked, it's crucial to explore and celebrate the diverse narratives that have shaped our past as well as our present. 

In this episode of the ‘Stories to be tolled blog’ Tracy emphasises the importance of diversity in education, highlighting how incorporating stories about colonial history into the curriculum gives people of colour not only a voice to express their own history but can foster in pupils a greater understanding of global interconnections and encourage taking their own journey towards owning their cultural heritage and identity.

If you enjoy these podcasts then visit us for more information as well the Website Bookshop

You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways    

You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipelink or email Tracy at [email protected] 

"History teaches us about human nature, how the politics and culture intertwined to make us who we are and to show how we evolve as social beings over time." (Tracy DW)

"What I want people to do is to make that journey from saying it's our history to actually saying it's my history." (Tracy DW)

This thought provoking episode of the blog challenges the traditional, polarised view of history, particularly black history, and calls for a more holistic understanding. With current discussions on reparations and the investigation into the royal family's wealth amassed through colonialism, Tracy highlights the importance of recognising the intertwined roles of different races on the lasting impact of colonialism.

Tracy emphasises that, while many may not have directly participated in historical injustices, they continue to benefit from the legacy. This realisation is crucial for fostering a sense of shared history and  encourages listeners to transition from seeing history as 'their history' to 'our history' and ultimately to 'my history.' Fostering a collective ownership that moves towards reconciliation and progress that are essential for societal breakthroughs.

Join us on this journey of reflection and understanding, as we uncover the past's profound influence on our present and future.

‘History is...a matter of fact or perspective?’ School Leader and author of the 'Stories to be tolled' poetic narratives, Tracy DW attempts to explore this question through her podcast series about the British Empire and Britain’s colonial past. By inviting you to share her learning journey, Tracy advocates a more global approach to understanding history. Presenting learning about the topic in a way that is thought provoking, imaginative and engaging.

If you enjoy these podcasts then visit us for more information as well the Website Bookshop

You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways    

You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipelink or email Tracy at [email protected] 

"The podcast has helped me learn that yet again, there's so much about our present circumstances in the world that has a link to colonialism and to decisions that now influence a lot of foreign policies that countries have with each other around the world." (Tracy DW)

 This next instalment of the blog series delves into the origins of Tracy’s podcast, 'Stories to be tolled – the podcast series,' which began as a way to share extensive research that didn't make it into her books. Initially planned as a limited series, the podcast has expanded to cover a wide range of topics and diverse themes. Some of which have influenced her approach and helped the podcast to evolve.

The aim of the podcast is to invite listeners to explore the connections between past and present and to understand the enduring impact of colonialism on today's world. Join Tracy on her learning journey, as she models historical inquiry and discover how history shapes our current circumstances.

‘History is...a matter of fact or perspective?’ School Leader and author of the 'Stories to be tolled' poetic narratives, Tracy DW attempts to explore this question through her podcast series about the British Empire and Britain’s colonial past. By inviting you to share her learning journey, Tracy advocates a more global approach to understanding history. Presenting learning about the topic in a way that is thought provoking, imaginative and engaging.

If you enjoy these podcasts then visit us for more information as well the Website Bookshop

You can opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways    

You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipelink or email Tracy at [email protected] 

"The goal is to inspire curiosity and encourage further exploration of topics like the history of Zimbabwe or the early colonisation of the Caribbean." (Tracy DW)

As an author, podcaster, and educator, Tracy's blog series aims to intricately weave historical insight with captivating narrative storytelling, shedding light on the British Empire's colonial past. In the second episode of this blog series, Tracy describes how 'Stories to be tolled' highlights the importance of developing a more inclusive history education in schools

‘History is...a matter of fact or perspective?’ School Leader and author of the 'Stories to be tolled' poetic narratives, Tracy DW attempts to explore this question through her podcast series about the British Empire and Britain’s colonial past. By inviting you to share her learning journey, Tracy advocates a more global approach to understanding history. Presenting learning about the topic in a way that is thought provoking, imaginative and engaging.

If you enjoy these podcasts then visit us for more information as well the Website Bookshop

You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways    

You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipelink or email Tracy at [email protected] 

Welcome to the fifth season of ‘Stories to be tolled – the podcast series!’

‘It’s hard to believe that way back in Oct 2020 when the very first episode was released that I would still be here sharing my learning journey with you, my co-learners and co-listeners.’ (Tracy DW)

Tracy’s back after a short break and there’s no better way to kick off the fifth season and to celebrate ‘Black History Month’ with her blog series - some episodes with a twist that will help re-orientate her regular listeners and welcome new listeners, helping them to become familiar with ‘Stories to be tolled’ and her vision for learning about history through her strapline ‘History is…a matter of fact or perspective?’

As an author, podcaster, and educator, Tracy's blog series aims to intricately weave historical insight with captivating narrative storytelling, shedding light on the British Empire's colonial past. For those with a keen interest in history or the complexities of colonialism, this blog series, together with all the episodes from the previous seasons, is another listening invitation to join Tracy on her own ‘Narrative Odyssey’ where she shares a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration that is uniquely hers.

‘History is...a matter of fact or perspective?’ School Leader and author of the 'Stories to be tolled' poetic narratives, Tracy DW attempts to explore this question through her podcast series about the British Empire and Britain’s colonial past. By inviting you to share her learning journey, Tracy advocates a more global approach to understanding history. Presenting learning about the topic in a way that is thought provoking, imaginative and engaging.

If you enjoy these podcasts then visit us for more information as well the Website Bookshop

You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways    

You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipelink or email Tracy at [email protected] 

‘In this season finale of 'Stories to be tolled,' I’d like to take this opportunity to say a huge THANK YOU and re-orientate you, my listeners back to where it all began.’ (Tracy DW)

By reading extracts from each of her current published titles, Tracy takes us through a poetic exploration of colonial events that have shaped the world. From England's early attempts to colonise the Caribbean, inspired by tales of gold and glory to The Berlin Conference of 1884 and the partitioning of Africa by European powers. All the way through to Rhodesia's struggle for independence, the resistance against white minority rule and the negotiations between Margaret Thatcher and Deng over the future of Hong Kong.

Tracy's narratives weave a rich tapestry of the past, encouraging listeners to embark on their own learning journeys. You can purchase your own copy of each of Tracy’s current titles by visiting the bookshop on the website.

Also, don't miss out on exclusive offers and challenges:

- Join the 'Name that Podcast' challenge for a chance to win exclusive merchandise.

- Try ‘Magic Mind’ with a special discount using code TOLLED20 for 48% off your subscription or 20% off a one-time purchase at the checkout when you click https://www.magicmind.com/tolled

- Sign up on the website to receive free samples of the first four story titles and also a chance to receive one of our monthly promotional giveaways  

Contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipe link or email Tracy [email protected]

Stay connected with Tracy via email at [email protected] or audio message on the speakpipe link  and follow 'Stories to be tolled' on social media. Tracy will be back in the autumn with a brand new season, continuing her exploration of Britain’s colonial past and inviting you to join her on this journey. Stay safe, stay well, and stay blessed. Thank you for your support over the past four seasons, and she’ll see you on the next page!

In this milestone 100th episode of 'Stories to be tolled,' Tracy commemorates Windrush Day, reflecting on the MV Empire Windrush's historic arrival at Tilbury docks in 1948. Tracy reflects on the rich narratives of the Caribbean migrants who helped rebuild post-war Britain, acknowledging their courage and contributions while also reminding us of the controversies and systemic inequalities that arose from immigration policies.

As she revisits some of the most popular episodes since the beginning of the podcast in October 2020, Tracy offers heartfelt thanks to her listeners for their support and shares the inspirations behind her podcast journey, highlighting the interconnectedness of her episodes, each one a unique yet holistic exploration of history, encouraging critical thinking and curiosity.

Happy Windrush Day, and here's to the next 100 episodes!

If you enjoy these podcasts, you can visit us for more information and you're also invited to take the 'Name That Podcast' Challenge for a chance to win some exclusive merchandise.

You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways  

 Contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipe link or email Tracy [email protected]

Don't forget to claim 48% off your first Subscription or 20% off your one time purchase of Magic Mind. Use the code TOLLED20 at the checkout when you click https://www.magicmind.com/tolled

In this bonus episode of 'Stories to be tolled,' I announce a significant update to the 'Name that Podcast' challenge. Reflecting on the feedback, I've decided to streamline format.

Stay tuned as the website will be updated with these new options in the coming days. This change is designed to enhance your experience and encourage more of you to participate in the challenge.

Good luck, and happy listening!

If you enjoy these podcasts, you can visit us for more information and take the 'Name that Podcast' Challenge for a chance to win some exclusive merchandise.

You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways 

Contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipelink or email  [email protected]

Don't forget to claim 48% off your first Subscription or 20% off your one time purchase of Magic Mind. Use the code TOLLED20 at the checkout when you click https://www.magicmind.com/tolled

In this episode of 'Stories to be tolled,' Tracy DW delves into the turbulent history and contemporary challenges of Kenya. Tracy examines the vision of Kenya's current president, William Ruto and questions the implications of recent collaborations and investments from the West, pondering on their true benefits for Kenya's future.

Tracy also explores the broader context of African nations grappling with the legacy of colonialism and raises critical questions about the ongoing impact of western intervention and the challenges of achieving sustainable development and governance in Kenya.

If you enjoy these podcasts, you can visit us for more information. Regular listeners are also invited to take the Name that Podcast Challenge of our first option, or try Option 2 or Option 3 for a chance to win some exclusive merchandise.

You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways  

 Contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipe link or email Tracy [email protected]

Don't forget to claim 48% off your first Subscription or 20% off your one time purchase of Magic Mind. Use the code TOLLED20 at the checkout when you click https://www.magicmind.com/tolled