Thecuriousmanspodcast

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks to author David Kieran about his book Signature Wounds: The Untold Story of the Military's Mental Health Crisis. This is an in depth book that covers the many different challenges veterans and the VA face in trying to solve and care for those afflicted with mental health issues. David Kieran takes a deep dive into those veterans and families affected by PTSD and TBI and shows us the issues and heart ache they face. Very impactful book, please read.

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks with author Alan Huffman about his book Sultana. This is the harrowing account of men who had to survive the Civil War, then being imprisoned in unspeakable conditions and finally the deadliest maritime disaster in American history. A close up view of the horrors experienced by these men will leave you deeply effected. Huffman brings you in close and points out that survival is not an accomplishment but living with that survival is the true test. Read this book!

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks with author William Hazelgrove about his new book, Wright Brothers, Wrong Story: How Wilbur Wright Solved the Problem of Manned Flight. A book that turns history on its head and tells the true story of the relationship between the Wright brothers and flight. An astounding read that unequivocally proves Wilbur was the mastermind behind flight. You will not want to put this book down.

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks to New York Times bestselling author Adam Higginbotham about his fantastic book Midnight in Chernobyl. Adam really dives deep into the history of the people that built and surrounded it. The story of Chernobyl is one of the sacrifice made by everyday people and the herculean effort on their part to mitigate this disaster. You get to know these people on such an intimate level it is hard not to get emotional while reading about their struggles. A book well worth the read!

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks to author and journalist Brian Murphy about his book Adrift. The story of the John Rutledge packet ship making the journey from Liverpool to New York in the winter of 1856 in a sea packed with ice. No modern communication and low visibility put this ship on a collision course with fate. An amazing story of survival and the struggle to retain ones humanity and morality at the most trying of times. Brian Murphy puts you aboard the Rutledge with compassion and prose.

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks to author and journalist Chris McGreal about his book American Overdose: The Opioid Tragedy in Three Acts. This book is an in depth look into the opioid crisis from the very beginning. Chris McGreal covers how big Pharma hooked Americans on opioids to make a buck and deceived the government and doctors on the addictive nature of the drugs they were marketing. A truly eye opening book that needs to be read and demystifies the opioid epidemic.

In this episode Matt Crawford talks to author and activist Sean Strub about his book Body Counts: A Memoir of Activism, Sex and Survival. This book recounts the AIDS epidemic from the very beginning through the lens of Sean's life as a gay man. From attending more funerals than parties, scared to angry he turned to activism to fight the discrimination and stigma attached to HIV and AIDS. A truly moving story of survival and compassion and an enlightening read.

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks with New York Times best selling author about his book In the Enemy's House: The Secret Saga of the FBI Agent and the Code Breaker Who Caught the Russian Spies. A true historical account that reads like a spy novel, you will find it hard to put this one down. A truly unbelievable story that is steeped in intrigue. A must read!

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks to author and journalist Michael Scott Moore about his book The Desert And The Sea. Michael recounts the 32 months that he spent as a hostage of Somalia pirates after being captured in early 2012. A book about his ordeal it is also philosophical, psychological, historical and emotionally raw. Michael opens himself up to the reader in a way that makes you feel as if you are a hostage to his moving book. A must read for anyone going through a difficult time.

In this episode Matt Crawford speaks to author and journalist Earl Swift about his book Chesapeake Requiem. This book tells the story of Tangier Island off the mainland of Virginia. Each chapter brings a different perspective to this time capsule of the island and the struggles it faces. Partly auto biographical, biographical, historical, location piece and even culinary this book traces the effects climate change is having on this island and how it effects the hardy people who inhabit it.