Episodios

  • Capitol Bombers: America's Forgotten Domestic Terror Campaign
    Mar 24 2025

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    November 1983, Washington DC. A bomb rips through the Republican cloakroom of the United States Capitol, shattering the illusion of security at America's seat of power. No casualties, just destruction - a pattern that would repeat again and again as federal buildings fell target to a series of precisely placed explosives.

    Through a dramatized narrative following fictional FBI Special Agent Jack Connors, we unravel the forgotten story of a domestic bombing campaign that struck the National War College, Navy Yards, military installations, and government buildings throughout the mid-1980s. Behind these attacks stood a group of radical communist revolutionaries - Linda Sue Evans, Marilyn Jean Buck, Susan Rosenberg, and Laura Whitehorn - former anti-war activists who had gone underground to wage their own war against what they viewed as American imperialism.

    What makes this chapter of American history so remarkable isn't just the audacity of bombing the heart of government, but how thoroughly it's vanished from our collective memory. These weren't random acts of violence but calculated strikes designed to damage institutions while avoiding casualties - revolution by demolition. After years of meticulous investigation, the FBI finally closed in with synchronized raids across the country in May 1985, ending a bombing spree that had mystified authorities for years.

    Though fictionalized for dramatic effect, this episode explores the real events, organizations, and revolutionary figures behind a domestic terror campaign that targeted the symbols of American power at the height of the Cold War. What drives idealists to violence? How does a nation forget attacks on its most sacred institutions? And where is the line between political action and terrorism? Email your thoughts to paulg@paulgnewton.com.

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    17 m
  • The Moon Shot That Would Have Gone Boom
    Mar 18 2025

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    The moon has always been humanity's silent companion, but few know how close we came to scarring it forever. During the darkest days of the Cold War, American military officials developed a classified plan that pushes the boundaries of imagination – Project A119, a serious initiative to detonate a nuclear weapon on the lunar surface.

    Following the Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik in 1958, panic gripped Washington. America was falling behind in the space race, and the implications weren't just scientific, but existential. If the Soviets could master space, what might that mean for America's security? From this fear emerged an audacious plan championed by figures like General Homer Boushey – showcase American power by creating a nuclear explosion visible from Earth.

    What makes this story particularly fascinating is the involvement of Carl Sagan, the beloved astronomer who would later inspire millions to look up at the stars with wonder. As a young scientist, Sagan calculated how lunar dust would behave during a nuclear blast, though something about the project troubled him deeply. The military wasn't asking what should be done, only what could be done. The moon wasn't a scientific frontier but a propaganda stage.

    The plan was eventually abandoned, but it leaves us with profound questions about how close humanity has come to irreversible cosmic mistakes. What unknown catastrophes might have unfolded had the explosion triggered unexpected reactions in the lunar environment? The story of Project A119 serves as a sobering reminder of how fear can drive even the most advanced nations to contemplate the unthinkable. Subscribe now to hear more hidden stories from the intersection of science, politics, and human ambition.

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    8 m
  • The Accidental Discovery That Changed Medicine
    Mar 7 2025

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    Alexander Fleming's discovery of penicillin changed the course of human history, but few understand the deeply personal journey that led to this breakthrough. This episode takes you to the blood-soaked trenches of World War I where a young doctor named Alex watches helplessly as infection claims soldier after soldier, including Private James Calloway. The invisible enemy – bacteria – proves more lethal than bullets and shells, leaving an indelible mark on Fleming's psyche.

    Years later, returning to his laboratory after a brief respite in Suffolk, Fleming discovers something extraordinary in the chaos of his abandoned experiments. A clearing in a contaminated petri dish reveals the first evidence of penicillin's bacteria-fighting power. This moment of recognition, drawn from his battlefield experiences watching men succumb to infection, transforms a seemingly random laboratory contamination into humanity's first effective weapon against bacterial disease.

    The story culminates with Albert Alexander, whose life-threatening infection from a simple rose thorn scratch becomes the testing ground for Fleming's discovery. As penicillin drives back the infection that doctors had declared fatal, Fleming witnesses the redemption of his years of work and the memories of soldiers he couldn't save. The narrative suggests that penicillin's discovery wasn't merely lucky chance but almost predestined – a substance that "found" Fleming rather than the other way around, forever changing medicine and saving countless millions of lives in the decades that followed.

    Have you ever wondered what other world-changing discoveries might be hiding in plain sight, waiting for the right person to recognize their significance? Email us your thoughts at paulg@paulgnewton.com and join the conversation about how seemingly small moments can transform human history.

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    8 m
  • Unmasking the Truth: The Christopher Alvord Murder Mystery
    Jul 21 2024

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    What happens when a key witness recants their testimony in a high-profile murder case? Join us on "Things I Wanna Know with Andrea S." as we unravel the chilling 2018 murder of Christopher Alvord and his dog in the quaint town of Eureka Springs, Arkansas. This shocking crime not only shattered the town's peaceful ambiance but also left the community grappling for answers. We recount the initial discovery by the Carroll County Sheriff's Office and discuss the impact of this heinous act on a town known for its Victorian charm and artistic spirit.

    Our exploration takes a deeper turn as we dissect the pretrial chaos triggered by key witness Joshua Anderson's sudden recantation. Why did he withdraw his testimony, and what theories could explain this drastic shift? We examine the potential coercion or threats behind his change of heart, coupled with the glaring lack of forensic evidence at the crime scene. The conversation highlights the community's struggle for justice and the erosion of trust in the legal system when critical testimonies falter. This discussion underscores the complexities and challenges the prosecution faced in their quest for justice.

    Switching gears, we wander into the realms of nuclear power advancements and the daunting task of uncovering information about cold cases in less represented regions like Arkansas. From personal anecdotes about the perils of highway travel to the importance of safety measures, we share our insights and experiences. A playful mention of a classic book on serial killers and a nod to the adventurous spirit of Curious George add a lighter touch to our conversation. This blend of serious inquiry and light-hearted banter sets the tone for our future explorations and discoveries.

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    29 m
  • Bridging the Gap Between Law and Heartache in Family Conflicts (repost)
    Apr 9 2024

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    Join us as we sit down with Nancy Purpole, to peel back the layers of divorce law and the importance of client engagement. Nancy's journey from the courtroom offers a unique vantage point, as she discusses the subtle nuances of family law and the emotional toll it can take. We delve into how one's past can shape communication in relationships, the shifting sands of legal acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals, and the impact of upbringing on one's ability to navigate legal challenges.

    This episode is a roller coaster of emotions, touching on the heartache that comes with custody battles and the contentious nature of using children as pawns. We share poignant stories from Nancy's career that highlight the complexities of attorney-client dynamics and the ethical quandaries lawyers face in family law. The discussion also sheds light on the surprising number of divorces arising from COVID-19 disagreements, serving as a stark reminder of the unforeseen challenges in marriage and the legal framework that surrounds it.

    As we wrap up, we tackle the tough questions about advocacy, particularly when it comes to children's welfare post-divorce. We also share the significance of role models during life's transitions and the necessity for resilience in the face of adversity. And because we understand the need for levity amidst serious topics, we end on a lighter note debating holiday nutcrackers and the virtues of vodka, inviting you to join in on the fun. This conversation with Nancy Purpole is not just an exploration of the law—it's a journey through the human experience, marked by growth, struggle, and the quest for justice.

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    1 h y 20 m
  • Helen Spence's Fight for River Justice in the Arkansas Delta (repost)
    Apr 1 2024

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    As we wade through the waters of historical intrigue and cultural legacy, Denise Parkinson joins us to share the stirring story of Helen Spence, an emblematic figure from the Arkansas Delta of the 1930s. Amidst the ebb and flow of the White River, we uncover the essence of the houseboat communities, reflecting on the robust and resilient spirit that has weathered through displacement, government intervention, and the persistent currents of social justice. The life of Helen Spence, etched against this dynamic backdrop, emerges not just as a tale of personal vendetta but as a broader narrative of the cultural divide within Arkansas, spotlighting the hushed stories of river communities and their unintentional brush with legendary outlaws.

    The episode takes an unexpected turn into a courtroom drama, tinged with the humor of a stuck gun in a tense situation, as we trace Helen Spence's journey from her infamous act of revenge to her somber stints in prison. Your heart might race as we recount her escapes, shaped by her riverine upbringing, and the dark shadow of a 1930s trafficking plot. Denise's personal anecdotes and a deep-dive into the Spence saga reveal how regional history is often a complex tapestry of human strength and the darker facets of human society, including the exploitation and marginalization of women like Helen.

    Lastly, the episode casts a critical gaze on the contemporary struggles within the film industry, highlighting my own experiences trying to illuminate Arkansas history through the lens of documentary filmmaking. Despite the challenges posed by gatekeeping and media blackouts, the conversation is imbued with determination and the hope that alternative pathways can shine a light on the rich narratives that course through the heart of the Arkansas Delta. Join us for this enthralling exploration, where the undulating tales of the past ripple into the present, and the echoes of justice and recognition resonate through time.

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    1 h y 24 m
  • The Artistic Path to Self-Discovery: A Captivating Conversation with Michaell Magrutsche
    Jun 14 2023

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    Join hosts Paul G from "Paul G's Corner" and Andrea, co-host of "Things I Want To Know," as they embark on a captivating interview with Michaell Magrutsche—an Austrian-California multimedia artist, creativity-awareness educator, speaker, author, and coach. Explore the profound journey of self-discovery through artistic exploration as Michaell unveils the power of art in fostering self-awareness and personal growth. Together, they delve into the intricacies of human nature, the transformative potential of artistic expression, and the exploration of self and societal systems. Please tune in for an inspiring dialogue that will ignite your imagination, spark introspection, and illuminate the transformative aspects of art in our lives.


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    43 m
  • Revealing Shadows: Unveiling the Journey of Fay Land
    May 28 2023

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    Step into the captivating world of "Things I Want To Know," a thought-provoking podcast hosted by Andrea and Paul G. In each episode, they bring you stories that unravel the depths of the human experience.

    In this dramatic installment, they embark on an extraordinary journey with Fay Land, a courageous woman who escaped the confines of a Chassidic Jewish cult. Join Andrea and Paul G as they peel back the layers of Fay's life, exposing the shadows that once consumed her. Together, they explore her remarkable transformation from a sheltered existence to a seeker of truth and independence.

    Prepare to be captivated as "Revealing Shadows" sheds light on Fay's struggles, sacrifices, and unwavering determination to forge her own path. Through heartfelt interviews, deep conversations, and poignant moments, this podcast episode invites you to question the boundaries of belief, the power of resilience, and the quest for personal freedom.

    Tune in to "Things I Want To Know: Revealing Shadows" and embark on an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you inspired, challenged, and forever changed.

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    1 h y 6 m