Thecuriousmanspodcast

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks with author Michael Blanding about his book North by Shakespeare. Did Shakespeare actually right all his plays? I didn't know this was even a question that needed to be asked. Who is Thomas North? The plot thickens and Blanding takes us along on his search for the answers. Plagiarism software, digital term searches and archival finds are just some of the tools that unravel this juicy story. A book that reads like a detective novel this one is hard to put down, and will have you saying "That's Gin!"

In this episode Matt Crawford speak with author and filmmaker Sebastian Junger about his book Freedom. What does Freedom mean? I guess that depends on who you are asking. Sebastian and I get into it and discuss how that word has evolved over time and how it translates to today's issues. From the MAGA to the WAGA crowd, from the Apache to modern day military, Junger shines a light on an important issue that we should all consider.

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks with author David B. Williams about his book Homewaters. Williams introduces us to The Puget Sound by taking us back in time and deep under the surface to show us what makes this beautiful ecosystem tick and envelopes us with its rich history. As Williams goes on scientific studies regarding, Herring, Rockfish, Kelp and the terrifying Geoduck he brings us along to learn in the most vibrant prose, engaging all our senses while we read. You might find yourself apologizing to Herring and Kelp as I have. Maybe not Geoducks. Listen to find out why.

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks with author Daniel James Brown about his book Facing The Mountain. Pearl Harbor changed everything, and for Japanese Americans more so than most. Bigotry already on display raged, forced from homes and businesses into internment camps and then asked to serve the very country imprisoning their families. This is a story of unexampled heroism and grace in the face of ignorance and hate. Brown does it again and you will find yourself weeping, when you experience what these poor families had to endure.

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks with author Heino Falcke about his book Light In The Darkness. This is one of those books that leaves you with so many more questions than when you began reading. And that is in the best of ways. Falcke describes his and his teams search to capture the first image of a Black Hole. With levity and knowledge he takes us along for the search and shares his faith with us as well. Religion, philosophy and science have never been blended so well. An utter joy to read and a spark for your curiosity. Enjoy!

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks with Dr. Bonnie Kaplan about her and co-author Dr. Julia Rucklidge's book The Better Brain. We are in the midst of a mental health crisis and for the most part we look to prescription medication to treat these illnesses. What if we could treat our brains, not with drugs but with nutrients through good clean TRUE food? The Better Brain lays out the scientific evidence that proves how effective a clean diet can be.  A paradigm shifting read in the treatment of mental disorders this is a book we all need to read.

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks with author Blaine Harden about his book Murder At The Mission. The story of missionaries forging west to the Oregon Territory in 1836 to convert the Nez Perce and Cayuse tribes would echo through American history through today. Harden details how a failed missionary and a harrowing trip to save his career would have a monumental impact on the Cayuse tribe and Native American relations writ large for years to come. A pivotal and important moment that needs to be discussed to understand our reprehensible relations with Native Americans and how far reaching and impactful the U.S governments actions were.

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks with author Tom Eisenmann about his book Why Startups Fail. Eisenmann takes us through how some startups fail and how to avoid those same pitfalls. A professor of business at Harvard, Eisenmann takes us into his classroom and lets us benefit from the trust he has established with these entrepreneurs. A masterclass on honesty and learning from mistakes this is a must read for anyone who appreciates the process of learning.

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks with author Amy Russo about her book Women of the White House. Russo takes us through the history of all the first ladies and surrogate first ladies that have served. A position with no set responsibilities this has been a post that has been made by those first ladies themselves. From Martha Washington, Mary Todd Lincoln, Eleanor Roosevelt, Jackie Kennedy and Jill Biden, we learn their effects on the Presidency, the populace and society writ large. 

In this interview Matt Crawford speaks with author Hadassah Lieberman about her book Hadassah. Hadassah covers the amazing life of Hadassah Liberman. Born in Prague to Holocaust survivors to within a hairs breadth of being the 2nd Lady of The United States, this book tracks Hadassah's travels and accomplishments. An inspiring and emotional read.