Dirt Nap City

Buckle up, folks, for a wild ride through the life and times of America's most boisterous president, Theodore 'Teddy' Roosevelt! Forget the stuffy history books – we're diving headfirst into the life of this larger-than-life character, complete with charging rhinos, political brawls, and enough stories to make your head spin.We'll explore Teddy's audacious adventures: from his days as a sickly kid to his transformation into a rugged outdoorsman, complete with bear hunting escapades and a penchant for wielding a big stick (literally!). We'll unpack his presidency, a whirlwind of trust-busting, conservation, and, of course, that time he mediated a peace treaty while wearing his pajamas.Teddy Roosevelt was more than a politician, he was a bad ass...perhaps the most bad ass politician the United States has ever known. Whether you want to know more about his days as a rough rider, or you want to know how many acres of national parks he gave us, this episode of Dirt Nap City will tame the wild man who was the 26th president of the United States. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

1/23/25 • 67:39

Join us on a captivating journey through the life and works of Charles Dickens, one of the most celebrated and influential novelists in English literature.Dirt Nap City delves deep into the Victorian era, exploring the social and political climate that shaped Dickens's unique perspective. We'll examine his extraordinary life, from his impoverished childhood to his rise as a literary giant. We'll discuss his groundbreaking novels, including classics like Great Expectations, Oliver Twist, A Christmas Carol, and David Copperfield.  We'll explore his use of vivid characters, memorable plots, and powerful social critiques to address issues of poverty, inequality, and the human condition.Whether you're a long-time Dickens enthusiast or simply curious about this literary legend, this podcast offers a fresh and engaging perspective on his life and work. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

12/19/24 • 56:16

This episode of Dirt Nap City takes a nostalgic look back at the golden age of drive-in movies. We'll explore the history of drive-in theaters, from their humble beginnings in the 1930s to their peak popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. We'll talk about the unique experience of watching a movie under the stars, the excitement of arriving early to claim a good spot, and the communal atmosphere that made drive-ins so special. We'll also discuss the challenges that drive-ins faced in the face of competition from television and indoor theaters, and how some theaters have managed to survive and even thrive in the 21st century. Join us for a trip down memory lane as we celebrate the nostalgic charm of drive-in movies. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

12/12/24 • 21:51

Beyond the gangster stereotype, Al Capone was a complex figure who wielded immense power during the Prohibition era. This episode delves into the real man behind the myth, exploring his rise to power, his criminal empire, and his eventual downfall.We'll uncover the truth about his infamous nickname, "Scarface," and the events that led to his disfigurement. We'll discuss his involvement in bootlegging, prostitution, and organized crime, examining the strategies he employed to maintain control over Chicago's underworld.The podcast will also explore the impact of Capone's reign on American society, particularly the rise of organized crime and its lasting influence on law enforcement. We'll analyze the role of corruption and political influence in his success and ultimate demise.Join us as we peel back the layers of this notorious figure and uncover the truth about the man behind the myth. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

12/5/24 • 52:29

The episode delves into the tumultuous period of Prohibition in the United States, which spanned from 1920 to 1933. The Prohibition Era, a period of immense social and cultural upheaval, was marked by the nationwide ban on the production, transportation, and sale of alcoholic beverages.Alex and Kelly explore the factors that led to the passage of the 18th Amendment, which enshrined Prohibition in the Constitution. The temperance movement, fueled by religious and social concerns, gained significant momentum in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The episode highlights the role of women's suffrage and the Progressive Era in shaping public opinion in favor of Prohibition.Despite the ban, we found that the 1920s were a time of unprecedented social change and economic prosperity. The Prohibition Era gave rise to a vibrant underground culture, characterized by speakeasies, bootlegging, and organized crime. The episode discusses the impact of Prohibition on the economy, as well as the emergence of new forms of entertainment and leisure activities.While the experiment ultimately failed, it had a profound impact on American society. The Prohibition Era shaped the nation's attitudes toward alcohol, law enforcement, and organized crime. This episode offers insights into the complexities of social change and the unintended consequences of government policies. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

11/28/24 • 29:42

Dick Clark is often called "America's Oldest Teenager". He was an iconic figure of American television, who was more than just a handsome face. He was the architect of countless hit shows that shaped popular culture for decades. Join us as we delve into the life and legacy of this broadcasting legend.We'll explore Clark's early career, from his humble beginnings in radio to his rise as a television pioneer. Discover how he revolutionized music television with shows like "American Bandstand," which introduced countless artists to a national audience. We'll discuss the impact of his other groundbreaking programs, including "New Year's Rockin' Eve," a beloved tradition that continues to this day.Beyond his television work, we'll examine Clark's entrepreneurial spirit and his involvement in various business ventures. We'll also explore the controversies that surrounded him, including the times he changed his name to "Cactus Dick" and "Dick Clay".In this episode of Dirt Nap City we'll paint a comprehensive portrait of Dick Clark an unsung hero of rock and roll and the man who brought us closer to the music we love. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

11/21/24 • 44:25

If you remember a time before downloadable or streaming music, you might remember the (seemingly) amazing offer that Columbia House offered - 12 CDs, Records, Cassettes, 8-Tracks, etc for one penny (later 1 dollar). This was an early subscription model of business that raked in the big bucks for CBS records and was successful for many years. But how was it for the consumer? What was the "catch" to the end user? In this episode of Dirt Nap City Dead Ends, Alex and Kelly revisit the Columbia House Record Club, how it worked and how it took advantage of young music fans who wanted to build a collection of recorded music.So for all of you who ended up with music you didn't want and paid way too much for, tape that penny to the paper and listen up! Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

11/14/24 • 19:23

John DeLorean: The Rise and Fall of an Automotive IconJoin us on a thrilling journey through the life and legacy of John DeLorean, the visionary automotive engineer who dared to dream big. From his meteoric rise at General Motors, where he revolutionized the automotive industry with iconic models like the Pontiac GTO, to his audacious gamble on the stainless steel DeLorean DMC-12, this podcast delves deep into the mind of a complex and controversial figure.Discover the untold stories behind the man and the machine. We'll explore the engineering brilliance that fueled DeLorean's success, the business acumen that built an empire, and the personal demons that ultimately led to his downfall. Through exclusive interviews, archival footage, and in-depth research, we'll uncover the truth behind the myths and unravel the fascinating tapestry of DeLorean's life.Whether you're a car enthusiast, a history buff, or simply captivated by the American Dream, this podcast will take you on a wild ride filled with innovation, ambition, and unexpected twists. Get ready to experience the DeLorean story like never before. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

11/7/24 • 59:11

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating yet tragic tale of the dodo bird. Once a common sight on the island of Mauritius, this flightless avian species has become a symbol of extinction. We'll explore the dodo's unique characteristics, its peaceful existence, and the factors that contributed to its demise.From its discovery by European sailors in the 16th century to its extinction within a century, we'll examine the role human activity played in the dodo's downfall. We'll discuss the introduction of invasive species, habitat destruction, and overhunting as key factors that led to the population's decline.Beyond the scientific details, we'll also explore the cultural significance of the dodo. Its image has been popularized in literature, art, and film, often symbolizing vulnerability and the consequences of human indifference. We'll discuss the ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and the lessons that can be learned from the dodo's fate.Join us as we unravel the mystery surrounding this iconic bird and explore its enduring legacy. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

10/31/24 • 14:27

This episode delves into the fascinating and controversial story of Mary Mallon, a seemingly healthy Irish immigrant who became the infamous "Typhoid Mary." In the early 20th century, New York City was grappling with a typhoid fever outbreak, a disease transmitted through contaminated food and water. Despite extensive efforts to contain the epidemic, the source remained elusive.It was in 1907 that Mary Mallon, a cook who had worked in several wealthy households, was identified as a carrier of the typhoid bacteria. Despite showing no symptoms herself, she unknowingly infected numerous people through her culinary duties. The discovery of Mary Mallon marked a turning point in public health. Her case highlighted the importance of asymptomatic carriers in disease transmission and the need for rigorous food safety measures.The episode explores the ethical dilemmas surrounding Mary Mallon's confinement and the public's fear of contagion. Despite her repeated attempts to return to work, health authorities insisted on her isolation to prevent further outbreaks. Mary Mallon's story raises questions about individual rights versus public health concerns and the role of science in shaping public policy. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

10/24/24 • 49:55

In this episode, we dive deep into the vibrant and revolutionary hippie movement of the 1960s. Join us as we explore the cultural, social, and political landscape that gave rise to this counterculture phenomenon. We'll examine the key events, figures, and ideas that shaped the hippie movement, from Woodstock and the Summer of Love to the rise of psychedelic drugs and the anti-war protests.We'll also discuss the lasting impact of the hippie generation on society. How have their ideals of peace, love, and freedom influenced subsequent generations? What enduring cultural contributions have they left behind? From music and fashion to environmentalism and social activism, we'll explore the ways in which the hippie legacy continues to shape our world today. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

10/17/24 • 20:40

John Lennon was one of the most influential rock and roll icons of all time. He was a founding member of The Beatles whose musical influence is still felt today. But who was this poet, musician and peace loving hippy from Liverpool, England? In this episode Kelly and Alex explore the early days of John Lennon's life in Liverpool and what may have influenced him as he became a man. We look at the early and later days of The Beatles, his early years with Yoko Ono, and his time as a dedicated father to one (but not the other) of his sons. John Lennon was not always the pacifist that he became, but his influence on the culture of the 1960's and 1970's is undeniable. So turn off your mind, relax, and float downstream in this psychedelic episode of Dirt Nap City. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

10/9/24 • 70:21

Welcome to Dirt Nap City, the podcast where we roll out the welcome mat, or in this case, the shag carpet. Join your hosts, Alex and Kelly as we delve into the world of one of the most divisive home decor choices of all time: shag carpeting.Is it a cozy, retro haven or a dust-collecting monster? We’re here to explore both sides of the shag carpet spectrum. From its heyday in the 70s to its questionable resurgence in modern homes, we'll cover it all. We'll discuss the pros and cons, share listener stories, and maybe even attempt to build a fort out of shag carpet in the studio (don’t worry, we’ll clean up after ourselves).On Dirt Nap City, we'll tackle serious topics like vacuum cleaner technology, the psychology of texture, and the environmental impact of synthetic fibers. But don’t worry, we’ll also have plenty of laughs as we share our personal shag carpet horror stories and discuss the finer points of lint-roller etiquette.Whether you’re a die-hard shag enthusiast or someone who would rather walk barefoot on a gravel driveway, there’s something for everyone on Dirt Nap City. So, grab your favorite pair of fuzzy slippers and join us for a deep dive into the world of shag carpeting. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

10/3/24 • 13:04

Welcome to Dirt Nap City where we dive deep into the shallow end of history. Join your hosts, Kelly and Alex, as we embark on a journey through the life and times of Marco Polo, the world's most famous overachiever.We're talking about the guy who not only traveled the Silk Road but probably brought back the world's first ever souvenir keychain. From the mundane to the mythical, we'll examine every aspect of Polo's life, from his childhood in Venice to his alleged encounters with mythical creatures.Did he really eat spaghetti with chopsticks? Did he invent the pizza? These are the burning questions we'll be answering. We'll also explore the cultural impact of Polo's travels, from introducing pasta to the West (or did he?) to inspiring a generation of armchair adventurers.So buckle up, grab your passport (or at least a good map), and join us on this epic adventure. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a good laugh, the "Polo Pod" is your one-stop shop for all things Marco Polo. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

9/26/24 • 49:58

Welcome to "Goldfish Gone Wild," the Dirt Nap City Dead End that dives headfirst into the absurd world of goldfish swallowing. We're talking about the most shocking stunts, and the downright fishy characters involved in this peculiar trend.Your hosts, Kelly and Alex, are your quirky guides through this aquatic abyss. With a healthy dose of humor, we'll explore the science (or lack thereof), the safety concerns (or lack thereof), and the sheer lunacy behind this bizarre phenomenon.  We'll rank the most creative goldfish swallowing stunts, discuss the potential health risks, and debate the ethics of using live animals for entertainment.But it's not all about the fish. We'll also dive into the psychology behind why people are drawn to such outrageous challenges. Is it for fame, fortune, or just plain foolishness? We'll try to understand the minds of these goldfish-gulping daredevils.Join us as we navigate the murky waters of this trend together. We promise plenty of laughs, a few cringe-worthy moments, and maybe even a goldfish-related fact or two. So grab your headphones, and let's get ready to swallow this dead end whole! Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

9/19/24 • 20:24

This week we dive into the extraordinary life and legacy of one of America's greatest sports heroes, Jim Thorpe. Beyond his athletic prowess, we explore the complex man behind the legend. From his humble beginnings as a Native American boy to his meteoric rise as a football, baseball, and track and field star, we examine the challenges and triumphs that shaped his life.Thorpe’s story is a testament to raw talent, unwavering determination, and the enduring spirit of the human will. We uncover the controversies that surrounded his career, including the stripping of his Olympic gold medals, and explore the impact of these events on his life.Join us as we celebrate the life and legacy of Jim Thorpe, a true American legend whose story continues to inspire generations. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

9/12/24 • 45:48

Artificial Intelligence or "A.I." is all over the news these days, but what does that mean to most of us? That we can use it to write emails or help with podcast episode descriptions? Yes. But it also means that we can create deep fakes of images and voices. And with this ability, it's going to be harder to trust that something we see or hear with "our own eyes and ears" is going to have to be examined further to see if it is what it claims to be. In this episode, Kelly creates some AI dialog using Alex's voice and then plays it for him to see how he reacts and get his take on the future problems and possibilities that this technology offers mankind. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

9/5/24 • 14:25

Forget the Disney tales! This podcast dives deep into the life and times of the real Davy Crockett. We peel back the layers of myth to reveal a fascinating frontiersman, soldier, politician, and storyteller.Join us as we explore Crockett's adventures from his early days on the Tennessee frontier to his rise as a folk hero and eventual stand at the Alamo. We'll separate fact from fiction, examining his role in shaping westward expansion, the Creek War, and the fight for Indigenous rights.But Crockett's story is more than just bears and battles. We'll delve into his political career, his evolving views on slavery, and the reasons behind his tragic demise.This podcast is your chance to meet the man behind the legend. So, saddle up for a wild ride through American history as we explore the truth about Davy Crockett. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

8/29/24 • 46:15

Looking back on 1975 and 1976, it's hard to believe that one man made almost $20 million dollars selling Pet Rocks. And this was before the internet! In this episode, Alex and Kelly dive into the fad that was the "pet rock" to see where it came from and why it became so wildly popular for a brief moment. If you had a pet rock named "Rocky", this episode is for you. Or if you are too young to remember this silliness and want to bask in the stupidity of old people, you will also enjoy this Dirt Nap City Dead End about pet rocks!Rock on! Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

8/22/24 • 12:47

Tired of being the office wallflower? Does your boss confuse "charisma" with "causes nausea"? Join us on "Carnegie's Caper: How NOT to Win Friends and Influence People" where we dissect Dale Carnegie's self-help classic, one awkward tip at a time. We'll explore the hilarious pitfalls of becoming a "phony friend," the dangers of complimenting a bald man's "luscious locks," and why remembering birthdays might not be the magic bullet Carnegie promised. And even though he was not related to Andrew Canegie, Dale changed the world in ways Andrew never could have imagined.Dirt Nap City is the self-improvement guide you never knew you needed (until now). Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

8/15/24 • 52:30

In a world dominated by digital payments, where even your grandma can Venmo, there exists a peculiar group of individuals who cling desperately to a bygone era: the check writers. This hilarious podcast dives headfirst into the absurd world of paper checks, exploring the inexplicable joy of licking glue, the art of balancing checkbooks, and the sheer terror of writing the wrong amount.Join your hosts, two self-proclaimed "check enthusiasts," as they embark on a comedic journey to uncover the mysteries of this antiquated payment method. From sharing cringe-worthy check-related anecdotes to debunking common check myths, no topic is too ridiculous to explore. Listeners can expect a healthy dose of sarcasm, pop culture references, and genuine bewilderment as the hosts try to wrap their heads around why anyone would still use checks in the 21st century. Whether you're a die-hard check lover or a digital payment convert, this podcast promises to entertain and enlighten with its unique blend of humor and nostalgia. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

8/8/24 • 14:25

Who was the real Neil Armstrong? Beyond the astronaut suit and the moon landing, there's a fascinating story of a complex man. Join us as we delve into the life and legacy of this American hero. We'll explore his triumphs, his challenges, and the incredible journey that led him to become the first person to walk on the moon. But don't worry, space helmets optional! Dirt Nap City is packed with fun facts, surprising anecdotes, and a healthy dose of modern-day perspective about the man who's small step was a giant leap for us all! Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

8/1/24 • 87:37

From the 1970's to the mid 1980's, citizen's band or "CB" radios were all the rage with professional truck drivers and the public in general. They inspired movies and songs - and truck drivers became the new outlaws of the open roads in the United States. In this episode, Alex and Kelly talk about what made CB's a special part of the the American cultural landscape. 10-4 Good Buddy! We hope you enjoy this episode! Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

7/25/24 • 25:51

In this episode of Dirt Nap City, we dive into the enigma that is Andy Kaufman. This episode unravels the life and career of the comedic genius who blurred the lines between performance and reality. From his outrageous characters like Latka Gravas to his legendary wrestling battles with Jerry Lawler, we explore the tactics that made him a legend...and sometimes, a villain. Was he a brilliant provocateur or a hilarious troll? We separate fact from fiction, with a special guest, Jarret Berenstein, a writer, comedian, and producer was a featured performer on Fox television's standup show Laughs. Jarret hosted the radio show Famous Dead People on Radio Free Brooklyn.He performed improv with the legendary Magnet Theater house team Junior Varsity for twelve years.Find out what a real comedian thinks about the ground breaking Andy Kaufman! Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

7/18/24 • 73:17

Cursive writing, once a cornerstone of education, has seen a dramatic decline in recent decades. The elegant loops and flowing connections that adorned historical documents are increasingly a relic of the past. But what factors led to this shift?The rise of technology is a major culprit. Typewriters, introduced in the early 20th century, offered a faster and more efficient way to produce written documents. Later, computers and digital communication further cemented the dominance of keyboarding. As a result, schools began to prioritize keyboarding skills over the time-consuming practice of cursive.However, the decline of cursive isn't without debate. Some argue that the fine motor skills developed through cursive writing benefit children in other areas, like reading comprehension. Additionally, the ability to read historical documents written in cursive remains valuable for research and understanding the past.Despite these arguments, the practical advantages of keyboarding and the evolving nature of communication make a compelling case. While the beauty and historical significance of cursive may be undeniable, its widespread use seems unlikely to return. The future of written communication appears firmly rooted in the click-clack of keyboards and the rapid swipe of touchscreens. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

7/11/24 • 16:50

After George Washington, Benjamin Franklin is considered one of the most important figures during the early days of the United States of America. He was a scholar, a writer, an inventor and a statesman. But did you know that he also tried to invent a new alphabet that eliminated "useless letters" and added new ones? And he also famously wrote an essay about flatulence...among many essays that he wrote - both under his own name and under pseudonyms.Ben Franklin is often called "the first American" because he longed to unite the colonies and eventually break free from the English crown. He played a very significant role in the early US and is still seen everywhere today - on currency - in books -and often referenced in popular culture. In this episode, Kelly and Alex dive into what made Ben Franklin a man of country, science, and even music. There is much more to Benjamin Franklin than most people know, so come along and see why the bald eagle (and not the turkey) is our national symbol! Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

7/4/24 • 69:25

Did you know that you don't pronounce the name of the famous synthesizer "Moog" with a "moo" (like a cow)? It's "Moog" with a long "o" like "mode". In this episode of Dirt Nap City Dead Ends, Alex and Kelly explore the heyday of synthesizers, the 1980's, and which music could rock the synth and which were just trying too hard. If you like 70's, 80's, and even 90's synth music...or even if you hate it...check out this podcast. It's sure to get you tapping your toes and singing along to "...take on meeeee....take me onnnn..." Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

6/27/24 • 23:26

He's the name synonymous with seduction, a legend whispered in bedrooms for centuries. But Giacomo Casanova was far more than just a notorious lover. Get ready to delve into the life of this 18th-century adventurer, writer, and self-proclaimed genius.Casanova was a man of many hats - a violinist, a clergyman, a mathematician, even a librarian! We'll explore his intellectual pursuits and the fascinating world he inhabited. From dodging imprisonment in the Doge's Palace to gambling sprees that left him penniless, Casanova's life was a whirlwind of adventure - often fueled by his own wit, cunning and folly,How did a man notorious for his love life become a cultural icon? We'll discuss his impact on literature and the enduring image of the ultimate charmer. Join us as we peel back the layers of Casanova's life and discover the fascinating, complex man behind the legend. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

6/20/24 • 46:33

Flagpole sitting is exactly what it sounds like: a person climbing on top of a towering pole, usually in the middle of a city, and testing their endurance by sitting atop it for as long as their body holds up. It began in Hollywood in January 1924, when a former sailor, boxer, steelworker, and stuntman named Alvin “Shipwreck” Kelly was hired by a local theater to sit on a pole outside of the building for as long as possible to drum up publicity for a new movie.But why did this fad come into fashion? What's the longest time spent on a flagpole? And how did they go to the bathroom? In this episode, Kelly and Alex explore the trend of flagpole sitting in the 1920's and beyond. Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

6/13/24 • 15:10

William Mathias Scholl, also known as Dr. Scholl,  was born in Indiana as one of 13 children. He studied medicine at Loyola University Chicago. During his studies, while working in a shoe store in the evenings, he became interested in podiatry. Dr. Scholl saw the lack of attention the medical and wellness community paid to people's feet and was able to build a business based on maladies and care of people's feet, which was very unique at that time.Dr. Scholl's business became a pioneer in not only care of the feet, but modern sales and marketing techniques. But there is some debate as to whether Bill Scholl ever actually completed medical school, and in fact, his company could not be called "Dr. Scholl's" in the UK and parts of Europe. Join Alex and Kelly as they jump feet first into the world of podiatry and the mysteries of the human foot as discovered by Dr. Scholl and his team! Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!Support the showDirt Nap City is the show about interesting dead people.Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!

6/6/24 • 46:16