Best Demille Podcasts (2025)

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Cecil B. DeMille and the Birth of Hollywood 27:27

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1d ago27:27

27:27

On this episode of Our American Stories, before Hollywood became the world’s movie capital, one man was already imagining films on a scale no one had ever seen. Cecil B. DeMille brought spectacle to the screen with epics like The Ten Commandments and The King of Kings, setting the standard for what cinema could be. Known as a master showman and a v…

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The Land Rover Case That Changed the Eighth Amendment 10:49

16h ago10:49

10:49

On this episode of Our American Stories, in 2013, Tyson Timbs had his $42,000 Land Rover seized by the state of Indiana after a low-level drug offense. That seizure set off a seven-year legal fight that reached the United States Supreme Court. The question was simple but historic: Could a state impose a punishment so extreme that it violated the Ei…

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A Couple's Story of Addiction, Redemption, and a New Mission 19:28

16h ago19:28

19:28

On this episode of Our American Stories, John and Ashley Marsh once stood on the edge of collapse. Addiction, infidelity, and financial ruin had left their marriage shattered and their lives without direction. John was preparing to end it all when an unexpected moment of faith interrupted his plans. That turning point marked the beginning of a long…

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Buying America’s First Faith-Based Automobile 7:59

16h ago7:59

7:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, long before mass production and freeways, the automobile was an invention still finding its way. The Duryea brothers were among its pioneers, and in 1901, they built something unique: a car made to glorify God. More than a century later, that car still exists. Barry Meguiar shares the story of how he came to…

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A Story of Survival, Faith, and Divine Intervention in WWII 10:49

16h ago10:49

10:49

On this episode of Our American Stories, when a young Iowa farmer named Cecil Wax was drafted into World War II, he never imagined his survival would hinge on a frozen mountain road in the middle of the Battle of the Bulge. Driving a supply truck loaded with gasoline and ammunition, Cecil fought ice, darkness, and the fear of ambush at every turn. …

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Hedy Lamarr: The Hollywood Star Who Helped Create WiFi 27:27

19h ago27:27

27:27

On this episode of Our American Stories, she was called the most beautiful woman in the world, yet Hedy Lamarr’s greatest gift had little to do with her looks. During World War II, she and George Antheil sketched out a way to keep military communications secure by sending signals across multiple frequencies. Their work was shelved and forgotten at …

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Aron Marquez and the American Dream 20:18

1d ago20:18

20:18

On this episode of Our American Stories, Aron Marquez’s American Dream began with dirt under his fingernails and sweat in the fields. The work was grueling, but it taught him lessons he never forgot: discipline, endurance, and responsibility. Those same lessons paved the way for him to enter the oil industry, where he founded a company (Wildcat Oil…

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My Father’s Escape from Castro’s Cuba 17:58

1d ago17:58

17:58

On this episode of Our American Stories, Cuba’s 1959 revolution brought Fidel Castro to power and forced countless families to make an impossible choice: stay under a communist regime or flee their homeland. Mike Gonzalez’s father once called Castro a friend, but soon discovered the price of living under his rule. With freedoms stripped away and fe…

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Nellie Bly’s Race Around the World in Seventy-Two Days 10:49

1d ago10:49

10:49

On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1890, Nellie Bly set out to do what seemed impossible: circle the globe in less than eighty days. Known to her readers as a bold reporter who once went undercover in a mental asylum, Bly was already a household name. But this journey, inspired by Jules Verne’s Around the World in Eighty Days, would make h…

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Remembering Erika, the Teacher Who Brought the Cold War to Life 10:49

3d ago10:49

10:49

On this episode of Our American Stories, for Lawson Bader, one teacher changed everything. Erika, his German instructor, wasn’t content to simply drill vocabulary. She wanted her students to see history with their own eyes. That meant taking Lawson to Berlin when the Wall still loomed large, dividing families and a nation. Standing at the Cold War’…

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Police Mistook Him for a Fugitive. What Happened Next Changed His Life 19:28

3d ago19:28

19:28

On this episode of Our American Stories, James King was just a 21-year-old college student walking to work in Grand Rapids when two men suddenly threw him to the ground. Thinking he was being mugged, he fought back until he realized his attackers were undercover law enforcement officers who had mistaken him for someone else. What followed were year…

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The Gettysburg Hero Who Waited 151 Years for the Medal of Honor 7:59

3d ago7:59

7:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, Alonzo Cushing was just 22 years old when he fell at Gettysburg, standing firm as Confederate troops charged across the field. His courage earned him the respect of his men, but not the honor he deserved. More than 150 years later, advocates carried his name all the way to the White House to secure the Medal…

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The Father She Thought Was Dead Lived Just Down the Street 20:18

3d ago20:18

20:18

On this episode of Our American Stories, for Karen Olson, the ache of missing her father began at a school dance where other girls stood beside their dads while she stood alone. Her mother had told her he was dead, and Karen believed it for decades. But the truth was far more complicated. A long-lost family connection surfaced years later and chang…

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The Mountain Man Who Inspired Robert Redford’s Jeremiah Johnson 9:59

3d ago9:59

9:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, when Robert Redford took on the role of Jeremiah Johnson in 1972, audiences fell in love with the image of a rugged mountain man who carved out a life in the wilderness. But the real Johnson lived a life far stranger and harsher than Hollywood ever showed. Historian Ashley Hlebinsky joins us to pull apart fa…

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Her Mother Always Told Her She Was Strong... But Strength Isn't Always Enough 7:59

3d ago7:59

7:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, Edie Hand remembers an Alabama childhood filled with mud pies, Shetland ponies, and afternoons in the barn where she could dream freely. Her mother kept a perfect home and often reminded her that she was strong, like her grandmother Alice. But while her brothers drew their mother’s attention, Edie was left t…

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We're Holding Our Own: The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald 20:18

4d ago20:18

20:18

On this episode of Our American Stories, on November 10, 1975, the freighter Edmund Fitzgerald vanished beneath the stormy waters of Lake Superior, taking all 29 crew members with her. The tragedy became one of the most famous Great Lakes shipwrecks, inspiring Gordon Lightfoot’s haunting ballad The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. Historian Ric Mixt…

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George Washington’s Letter That Defined Religious Freedom in America 9:59

4d ago9:59

9:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1790, George Washington answered a letter from the Hebrew congregation in Newport, Rhode Island. His reply carried words that still echo today: America would give “to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance.” It was a radical promise for its time, a vision of a nation where faith and government …

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How Panama’s Dictator Manuel Noriega Found God in the Unlikeliest Place 7:59

4d ago7:59

7:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, in the late 1980s, Panama was at the center of global attention as strongman Manuel Noriega tightened his grip on power. Known for his brutality and ties to the drug trade, he seemed untouchable. But when a hairdresser unknowingly welcomed Noriega’s daughter into her chair, an unlikely chain of events began.…

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From Sandlots to Super Bowls: The Birth of the NFL 30:17

4d ago30:17

30:17

On this episode of Our American Stories, long before billion-dollar stadiums and television contracts, professional football was played on dirt lots by men who worked factory shifts by day and risked their bodies by night. Owners mortgaged their futures to keep teams alive, and few believed the sport would last more than a season or two. John Eisen…

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How a Gravedigger Became a Hero: King Solomon and the 1833 Cholera Epidemic 7:59

4d ago7:59

7:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, in the summer of 1833, Lexington, Kentucky, was brought to its knees by a cholera outbreak. Entire families were lost in a matter of days, and fear spread faster than the disease itself. When the dead outnumbered the living willing to bury them, one man stepped forward. His name was Solomon. Most people in t…

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Mary Surratt: The Woman at the Center of the Lincoln Assassination Conspiracy 38:16

5d ago38:16

38:16

On this episode of Our American Stories, in the weeks after Abraham Lincoln’s assassination, authorities hunted not only John Wilkes Booth but also anyone suspected of aiding him. Among the accused was Mary Surratt, a widowed boardinghouse owner in Washington. Investigators claimed her home was the meeting place where the plan to kill the president…

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The Woman Who Convinced Lincoln to Make Thanksgiving a Holiday 20:18

5d ago20:18

20:18

On this episode of Our American Stories, before it became the fourth Thursday in November, Thanksgiving was just one of many autumn celebrations scattered across the country. In the mid-1800s, Sarah Josepha Hale, already known for writing “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” saw an opportunity to unite the nation around a shared tradition. For decades, she wr…

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Greg LeMond’s Stunning Tour de France Comeback 17:58

5d ago17:58

17:58

On this episode of Our American Stories, before 1987, Greg LeMond was already a champion. After 1987, no one expected him to race again. A near-fatal hunting accident left him with life-threatening injuries and months of painful recovery. But in 1989, he returned to the Tour de France, determined to reclaim his place at the top. What followed was a…

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How a Fugitive Slave’s Jailbreak Fueled the Rise of the Republican Party 20:18

8d ago20:18

20:18

On this episode of Our American Stories, in the tense years before the Civil War, Joshua Glover — a man who had escaped slavery — was captured in Wisconsin under the Fugitive Slave Act. His fate seemed sealed until local abolitionists staged a daring public rescue that defied federal law in broad daylight, breaking down the doors of a jail to save …

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The 1926 Race to the North Pole and the Explorers Who Risked Everything to Get There 9:59

8d ago9:59

9:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1926, two men set their sights on the same prize: the North Pole. Roald Amundsen took to the air in the Norge, a giant hydrogen airship, while Richard Byrd climbed into a Fokker trimotor and gambled on speed. Both faced bitter cold, unreliable machines, and a wilderness with no safe landing. What happened…

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Why Vietnam Vets Trusted the Writer of "Braveheart" With "We Were Soldiers" 7:59

8d ago7:59

7:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, We Were Soldiers is a motion picture about the Vietnam War, written and directed by Randall Wallace and starring Mel Gibson. Based on the book We Were Soldiers Once...and Young by Lt. Gen. Hal Moore and journalist Joseph L. Galloway, the film tells the story of the Battle of Ia Drang, one of the first major …

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The Real Wild Bill Hickok and the Life Behind the Legend 30:17

8d ago30:17

30:17

On this episode of Our American Stories, Wild Bill Hickok’s life was built on bold choices and bigger risks. As a U.S. Marshal and sheriff, he kept order in towns others had given up on, earning a name as one of the fastest guns in the West. He walked into danger more than once, and just as easily stepped into a card game or a saloon when the work …

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How Oskar Schindler Risked Everything to Save Lives in WWII 7:59

8d ago7:59

7:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, before the war, Oskar Schindler was a businessman chasing opportunity, even if it meant joining the Nazi Party. But when he witnessed the brutality unfolding around him in occupied Poland, he made a choice that would define his life. Through cunning, bribery, and sheer nerve, Schindler used his factory to pr…

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Why the Allies Invaded Italy Before D-Day 30:17

9d ago30:17

30:17

On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1943, the Allied victory in North Africa opened the door to the next move against the Axis. American and British leaders debated their best path forward. Some wanted a direct invasion of France, while others argued for a southern push through Italy to weaken German defenses and knock Italy out of the war.…

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The Truth About Michael Jackson’s Changing Skin Color 7:59

9d ago7:59

7:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, Michael Jackson’s career made him one of the most recognizable and most scrutinized people on the planet. As his fame grew, so did the attention on his appearance, especially his skin color. What the public saw was a dramatic lightening over time. What they didn’t know was that Jackson was living with vitili…

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Could Pearl Harbor Have Been Prevented?: 12 Days to Infamy 20:18

9d ago20:18

20:18

On this episode of Our American Stories, Pearl Harbor marked America’s entry into World War II, but the road to that day was lined with warning signs. Intelligence reports pointed to Japanese aggression, yet many leaders dismissed the possibility of an attack and even the possibility that the Japanese could fly airplanes. In the twelve days leading…

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The God and Divinity Roots of America’s Most Famous College: Harvard 7:59

9d ago7:59

7:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, long before Harvard became a global symbol of academic achievement, it began as a school to train Puritan ministers. The Bible was at the center of its curriculum, guiding the values and vision of its founders. As part of our ongoing series, Robert Morgan, author of 100 Bible Verses That Made America, shares…

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How Ellen and William Craft Outsmarted Slavery 20:18

10d ago20:18

20:18

On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1848, William and Ellen Craft were enslaved in Georgia and knew they could not start a family until they were free. Their escape plan was as risky as it was brilliant. Ellen, who was light-skinned, disguised herself as a wealthy white man traveling with an enslaved servant — her husband, William. Together…

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"Fair Game" and the Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions 9:59

10d ago9:59

9:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language, this time diving into how the phrase “fair game” came to be. His book, Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases, is a must-read. …

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The First Martyr of the Abolition Movement: Elisha Lovejoy 7:59

10d ago7:59

7:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, if you want to know about the history of America, it is imperative that you know the role that the Bible played in shaping our country. Our Founding Fathers—both Christian and non-Christian—were heavily influenced by the Bible. Here to share another story is Robert Morgan, author of 100 Bible Verses That Mad…

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234 Marines Against 10,000 Chinese Soldiers: Fox Company’s Fight for Survival 30:17

10d ago30:17

30:17

On this episode of Our American Stories, at the height of the Korean War, Fox Company was cut off in the mountains and outnumbered almost fifty to one. Their orders were simple and brutal: hold a critical mountain pass or see thousands of fellow Marines trapped. For nearly a week, Captain William Barber’s men fought through cold, hunger, and relent…

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A Survivor’s Story of Healing Through Faith in Christ 9:59

10d ago9:59

9:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, Valerie’s life was marked by the trauma of abuse, but her story didn't end there. Through her faith in Christ, she found the courage to forgive and the grace to rebuild her life. In this moving account, Valerie Habeeb, Lee's wife, shares the story of her journey from deep pain to spiritual freedom through Ch…

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The Day Rick Monday Made One of Baseball’s Most Patriotic Plays 7:59

10d ago7:59

7:59

On this episode of Our American Stories, Rick Monday’s career spanned more than a decade in Major League Baseball, but one defining moment had nothing to do with a bat or glove. In the spring of 1976 at Dodger Stadium, he intervened when protesters tried to set fire to the American flag in the middle of a game. His quick reaction, caught on camera,…

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The Rise, Fall, and Redemption of Floyd Landis, Tour de France Winner 38:16

11d ago38:16

38:16

On this episode of Our American Stories, Floyd Landis’s story is one of extremes. Raised in a quiet Mennonite community in Pennsylvania, he trained on back roads without the distractions of modern life. That focus carried him to the 2006 Tour de France, where he pulled off one of the most remarkable comebacks in cycling history. But only days later…

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Dwayne Johnson’s Heartfelt Goodbye to His Father, Rocky “Soulman” Johnson 10:49

11d ago10:49

10:49

On this episode of Our American Stories, before Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson became a global icon, he was the son of a wrestling legend. Rocky “Soulman” Johnson’s career in WWE helped pave the way for future champions, but his most lasting impact was at home. In this emotional tribute, The Rock shares memories of his father’s relentless work ethic, hi…

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John Marshall: The Farmer’s Son Who Became America’s Greatest Chief Justice 27:27

11d ago27:27

27:27

On this episode of Our American Stories, before John Marshall, the Supreme Court was still finding its place in the new American government. By the time he was done, it had the power to declare laws unconstitutional, and entrepreneurs had the legal framework to build a nation. Marshall’s landmark decision in Marbury v. Madison established judicial …

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Mike Olbinski Shoots Brides and Thunderheads 10:49

12d ago10:49

10:49

On this episode of Our American Stories, Mike Olbinski didn’t plan on chasing storms. He began by photographing weddings and family portraits in Arizona, but a fascination with weather grew into a second career that takes him into some of the most extreme conditions in the country. Today, he’s known for both his elegant wedding work and his stunnin…

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He Joined the Army to Die, But Found a Reason to Live 27:27

12d ago27:27

27:27

On this episode of Our American Stories, Ken Scar didn’t join the Army looking for redemption. He was in his 40s, broke, and ready to disappear. What he found instead was structure, belonging, and a camera that gave him a new perspective on the world. Assigned as a combat photographer, Ken began capturing life through a different lens. With each mi…

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How a Farm Crowd in Iowa Saved Truman’s White House Run 10:49

12d ago10:49

10:49

On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1948, Harry Truman was trailing in the polls and widely expected to lose. Then his campaign made an unexpected stop in Dexter, Iowa, for a national plowing match. The small-town crowd showed up in force, and so did the press. Truman’s speech that day was fiery, direct, and aimed squarely at the concerns o…

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Coke Was a Cure-All First. Then It Became a Global Obsession 27:27

12d ago27:27

27:27

On this episode of Our American Stories, Coca-Cola’s beginnings weren’t glamorous. It started with a wounded Confederate veteran, a sugary syrup marketed as medicine, and a bold idea that caught on in the American South. Larry Jorgensen, author of The Coca-Cola Trail, shares how the drink moved from soda fountains to glass bottles, how small-town b…

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Satchel Paige: The Pitcher Who Changed Baseball Forever 10:49

15d ago10:49

10:49

On this episode of Our American Stories, Satchel Paige didn’t just pitch; he dazzled. Known for fastballs with names like the Midnight Creeper and the Bat Dodger, he played for five decades without a relief pitcher in sight. Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, shares the life and legend of one of the greatest to ever take …

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How Batman Became a Cultural Icon 27:27

15d ago27:27

27:27

On this episode of Our American Stories, Batman has worn many faces, but his shadow has never faded. From gritty detective tales to cartoon camp, billion-dollar films, and everything in between, the Dark Knight has reflected the fears, hopes, and styles of every era. Batman wasn’t always a global icon, but decade by decade, he became a mirror of wh…

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Why the U.S. and Britain Nearly Went to War Over a Pig 10:49

15d ago10:49

10:49

On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1859, a pig wandered onto the wrong farm and sparked an international standoff. The U.S. and Great Britain nearly went to war over a single hog on San Juan Island, in what is now Washington State. History teacher Anne Clare shares the story of the strange chain of events that followed, where pride, politi…

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How Florida’s Swampland Became America’s Dream 27:27

15d ago27:27

27:27

On this episode of Our American Stories, before the beaches, theme parks, and high-rises, Florida was mostly swampland. In the 1950s, a wave of entrepreneurs arrived with a different vision. Jason Vuic, author of The Swamp Peddlers, explains how these ambitious salesmen helped reshape the state into one of the fastest-growing places in the country.…

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What a Crab House Taught Him About Growing Up 20:18

16d ago20:18

20:18

On this episode of Our American Stories, Brent Timmons didn’t expect much when he took a summer job at the Fenwick Crab House. He figured he’d get just a paycheck and maybe a little work experience. What he got was something else entirely. Between steamed clams and daily prep, he learned how to lead, take correction, and push through exhaustion wit…