Welcome to Time Tellers, the podcast where history becomes a personal narrative. Join hosts Renee and Dan as they take you on a captivating journey back to a time when the American Dream could be delivered right to your doorstep, courtesy of the Sears catalog and the mighty railroad. In this episode, we unravel the fascinating story of Sears Modern Homes, a groundbreaking concept that brought thousands of houses to life between 1908 and 1942.

Discover the origins of the mail-order home, exploring how pioneers like the Aladdin Company and Gordon Van Tine paved the way before Sears stepped into the spotlight with its vast distribution network and legendary catalogs. Dive into the design evolution of these kits, from the architectural intricacies to the customizable features that captured the imagination of countless Americans looking to build their dream homes.

Through engaging storytelling, explore the unique challenges and triumphs faced by those who embarked on the adventure of transforming a boxcar filled with parts into a cherished home. Unearth the impact of Sears' homes on communities and the lasting legacy that continues to inspire modern prefab and modular homes today. Whether you're a history buff or an architecture enthusiast, this episode promises a nostalgic blend of innovation, resilience, and the enduring pursuit of the American Dream.

Step into a tale where political ambitions, personal grudges, and dueling pistols intersect against the backdrop of early American history. Join Renee and Dan on Time Tellers as they unravel the gripping narrative of the infamous Hamilton-Burr duel, a pivotal moment that forever altered the American political landscape.

Discover the shared paths of these two titans — Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr — who started as allies in the Revolutionary War before finding themselves at ideological loggerheads. Through letters steeped in distrust and accusations, dive into the tension that escalated into a deadly showdown in Weehawken, New Jersey.

Explore the myths, truths, and lasting impact of this historical clash, while gaining fresh insights into the human passions and political rivalries that shaped a nation. Can a duel really define one's legacy? Tune in to find out.

Join us on a captivating journey through time in this episode of Time Tellers. Discover how beaches, once shunned as eerie and dangerous places, transformed into iconic symbols of leisure and relaxation. From the ancient myths of Poseidon and Neptune to the medicinal sea baths of the 1700s, we unravel the sandy chronicles that led to the birth of modern beach culture.

Explore the rise of seaside resorts in Brighton, the bustling boardwalks of Coney Island, and the sun-drenched shores of Malibu. Witness the cultural revolution that turned beaches into playgrounds for both the elite and the masses, and the role of art, literature, and cinema in crafting our idyllic seaside fantasies.

While the story of the beach is often one of laughter and sun, it also bears witness to historical struggles against racial segregation and private ownership battles. As the gentle waves lap the shore, listen to the tales of seaside civil rights battles, secret wartime dramas, and the shared human moments that unite us by the water's edge.

Tune in to uncover the layers of history that lie beneath the sand and discover why beaches remain a powerful backdrop for love, leisure, and lasting memories.