Episodes

Thursday Sep 07, 2023
RPTM Podcast #061: Bridging the Gap
Thursday Sep 07, 2023
Thursday Sep 07, 2023
Episode #061: Bridging the Gap
09/07/2023
Earth's history is incredibly long, stretching back billions of years. Our planet was formed about 4.6 billion years ago, setting the stage for life and human civilization. Ancient oceans, mountains, and volcanoes played a big part in shaping the land in the United States, which has a fascinating geological history. Native Americans came to this land around 15,000 years ago, significantly influencing the nation's culture and traditions. Then, in the 16th century, Europeans arrived, which led to Native Americans being pushed out, and colonies were established that eventually became the United States. Over time, the U.S. became known for democracy, individual rights, and economic success, partly because of its abundant natural resources. However, the adverse effects of colonization, like the mistreatment of Native Americans, African slavery, and the use of resources, still affect the country today. Knowing this history is crucial for dealing with problems like social inequality and environmental issues.
The Earth's history is divided into periods like the Precambrian, Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic Eras. The Precambrian Era, which covers 90% of Earth's history, saw the beginnings of life and significant changes in the atmosphere. Studying this era helps us learn about where life came from and how North America's landscape was formed. The Paleozoic Era brought the evolution of plants and animals, the formation of supercontinents, and mass extinctions, all of which significantly impacted the U.S., shaping its land and the different types of living things here. The Mesozoic Era, known as the time of reptiles, shaped the eastern part of the U.S. and gives us clues about its geological history and the ancient creatures that lived there. Lastly, the Cenozoic Era, the age of mammals, led to diverse ecosystems, changes in climate, and people moving around, all of which teach us a lot about the nation's history, climate change, and the variety of life. Also, studying the Land Bridge, called Beringia, helps us understand how people settled in the Americas long ago, the development of different cultures, and how humans and the environment interacted.
Main Topics:
- Precambrian Era
- Paleozoic Era
- Mesozoic Era
- Cenozoic Era
- The Land Bridge
Step into the Time Machine: Hit that subscribe button to ensure you never miss an episode! Support our podcast by leaving a review, sharing your favorite episodes with friends, and helping us spread the love for all things history-related. Subscribe, engage, and be part of the RPTM Podcast community today!
Hosts:
Ryan Lancaster
ARCHIE
HILDY
Producer: Ryan Lancaster
Executive Producer: Ryan Lancaster
Sound Engineer: Ryan Lancaster
Editor: Ryan Lancaster
Theme Music Composer: Craig Riley
Artwork Design: Ryan Lancaster
Recorded at: Ryan Lancaster Studios
Email:
ryan.g.lancaster@gmail.com
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LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO:
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All content, including but not limited to audio recordings, text, images, graphics, and any other material available through the Podcast, is protected by copyright law. The Podcast and its content are owned and operated by Professor Lancaster unless otherwise indicated.
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You may listen to, download, and share episodes of the Podcast for personal, non-commercial use only. Any other use, including but not limited to reproduction, distribution, or public performance, requires the explicit written consent of Professor Lancaster.
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Disclaimers
The Podcast is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in the Podcast are those of the hosts and guests.
The Podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with relevant professionals for specific advice related to their circumstances.
Changes to Terms
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Monday Sep 18, 2023
RPTM Podcast #062: Norsin’ Around
Monday Sep 18, 2023
Monday Sep 18, 2023
Episode #062: Norsin' Around
09/18/2023
The Archaic period in early American history marked a significant shift from nomadic hunting and gathering to settled communities with diversified diets and advanced tools. Before this era, Paleo-Indians had relied on a limited range of food sources. However, during the Archaic period, larger groups began to settle in one place for part of the year, cultivate their crops, and invent essential tools like baskets and fishhooks. This transition allowed for more complex societies typified by cultures like the Mound Builders. Studying this period is crucial for understanding early American communities' evolution, adaptability, and how they addressed environmental challenges.
In the post-Archaic stage, comprising the Formative, Classic, and post-Classic periods, we observe further cultural development and the establishment of extensive trade networks. The Woodland period featured the Hopewell tradition, marked by elaborate trade routes and activities centered around rivers. Teotihuacan, an ancient Mesoamerican city predating the Aztec Empire, provides invaluable insights into early civilizations. These studies enrich our comprehension of North American history, trade dynamics, and ancient cultures while challenging conventional narratives and promoting a more inclusive perspective. Furthermore, acknowledging the detrimental impact of the White Myth on Native American history is essential for addressing past injustices and fostering a more respectful and comprehensive understanding of history.
Main Topics:
- The Archaic Period
- The Post-Archaic Period
- The White Myth
- Colonization of Hawaii
- Norse Colonization of North America
Step into the Time Machine: Hit that subscribe button to ensure you never miss an episode! Support our podcast by leaving a review, sharing your favorite episodes with friends, and helping us spread the love for all things history-related. Subscribe, engage, and be part of the RPTM Podcast community today!
Hosts:
Ryan Lancaster
ARCHIE
HILDY
Producer: Ryan Lancaster
Executive Producer: Ryan Lancaster
Sound Engineer: Ryan Lancaster
Editor: Ryan Lancaster
Theme Music Composer: Craig Riley
Artwork Design: Ryan Lancaster
Recorded at: Ryan Lancaster Studios
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ryan.g.lancaster@gmail.com
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LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO:
Content Ownership and Use
All content, including but not limited to audio recordings, text, images, graphics, and any other material available through the Podcast, is protected by copyright law. The Podcast and its content are owned and operated by Professor Lancaster unless otherwise indicated.
Permissions and Fair Use
You may listen to, download, and share episodes of the Podcast for personal, non-commercial use only. Any other use, including but not limited to reproduction, distribution, or public performance, requires the explicit written consent of Professor Lancaster.
Third-Party Content
The Podcast may feature content or materials from third parties, including guest interviews, music, or excerpts from other sources. The rights and permissions for such third-party content are the responsibility of the respective copyright owners, and their use may be subject to separate terms and conditions.
Disclaimers
The Podcast is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in the Podcast are those of the hosts and guests.
The Podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with relevant professionals for specific advice related to their circumstances.
Changes to Terms
We reserve the right to modify, amend, or update this Legal and Copyright Information anytime. It is your responsibility to review this document periodically for changes.

Tuesday Sep 26, 2023
RPTM Podcast #063: Back in Thyme
Tuesday Sep 26, 2023
Tuesday Sep 26, 2023
Episode #063: Back in Thyme
09/26/2023
In 1492, Christopher Columbus's expedition to explore the Americas initiated a significant encounter between Europeans and indigenous peoples. This interaction led to profound clashes of cultures and societies, resulting in lasting consequences for the indigenous communities. With advanced technology and military tactics, Europeans dominated native societies, bringing their customs, languages, and religions and often displacing indigenous roots through forced migration. Europeans' devastating introduction of diseases further exacerbated the hardships faced by indigenous populations. Recognizing the perspectives of marginalized communities, acknowledging unsung heroes, and navigating through historical biases are essential for a more comprehensive understanding of this complex history.
Across the Americas, diverse indigenous cultures thrived with unique culinary traditions and rich musical heritage. Studying Indigenous cuisine preserves their culture, promotes sustainable living, and enriches American culinary diversity. However, colonization and assimilation have negatively impacted Indigenous food systems and knowledge. Similarly, Native American music is deeply intertwined with their history and education, serving to pass down stories, customs, and oral traditions. Understanding and studying Native American music is essential for preserving cultural heritage and inspiring contemporary artists, prompting conversations about cultural appropriation and tradition erosion.
Main Topics:
- Mississippian Culture
- Hohokam Culture
- Iroquois Nation
- Birth of American Food
- The First Musicians
Step into the Time Machine: Hit that subscribe button to ensure you never miss an episode! Support our podcast by leaving a review, sharing your favorite episodes with friends, and helping us spread the love for all things history-related. Subscribe, engage, and be part of the RPTM Podcast community today!
Hosts:
Ryan Lancaster
ARCHIE
HILDY
Producer: Ryan Lancaster
Executive Producer: Ryan Lancaster
Sound Engineer: Ryan Lancaster
Editor: Ryan Lancaster
Theme Music Composer: Craig Riley
Artwork Design: Ryan Lancaster
Recorded at: Ryan Lancaster Studios
Email:
ryan.g.lancaster@gmail.com
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LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO:
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All content, including but not limited to audio recordings, text, images, graphics, and any other material available through the Podcast, is protected by copyright law. The Podcast and its content are owned and operated by Professor Lancaster unless otherwise indicated.
Permissions and Fair Use
You may listen to, download, and share episodes of the Podcast for personal, non-commercial use only. Any other use, including but not limited to reproduction, distribution, or public performance, requires the explicit written consent of Professor Lancaster.
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The Podcast may feature content or materials from third parties, including guest interviews, music, or excerpts from other sources. The rights and permissions for such third-party content are the responsibility of the respective copyright owners, and their use may be subject to separate terms and conditions.
Disclaimers
The Podcast is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in the Podcast are those of the hosts and guests.
The Podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with relevant professionals for specific advice related to their circumstances.
Changes to Terms
We reserve the right to modify, amend, or update this Legal and Copyright Information anytime. It is your responsibility to review this document periodically for changes.

Wednesday Oct 04, 2023
RPTM Podcast #064: Mesoamerican Mingle
Wednesday Oct 04, 2023
Wednesday Oct 04, 2023
Episode #064: Mesoamerican Mingle
10/04/2023
In ancient Mesoamerica, the Maya performed elaborate rituals involving special drinks like "balché," concocted from plant bark and honey from psychedelic bees. This beverage was consumed to establish connections with spirits, foresee the future, and gain insights into illnesses, weather, and wars. The Mayans also utilized tobacco and psychoactive substances in their ceremonies, with peyote, a hallucinogenic cactus, playing a significant role in inducing vivid visions and altering time perception. Toads' toxic substances were sometimes added to enhance the potency of these drinks, while "toloache," known as the "devil's herb," was employed for healing and altered consciousness rituals. This Mesoamerican drug culture offers valuable insights into ancient beliefs and traditions, showcasing how certain practices and substances continue to influence contemporary drug culture, demonstrating both positive aspects, such as spiritual connections and medicinal uses, and potential negatives, like addiction and harm to individuals and communities.
Gender roles and identities in ancient Mesoamerica were diverse and fluid. Artifacts from the period indicate that individuals did not rigidly conform to traditional male or female categories, as depictions often featured bodies lacking apparent gender features. Elite members of society would sometimes adopt clothing associated with the opposite gender during rituals. Sexuality was viewed as a sacred and magical act tied to the creation of life, and myths and traditions demonstrated acceptance of sexuality and masturbation. Understanding the historical context of sex and gender in Mesoamerica provides valuable insights into diverse gender identities and roles. It also fosters a broader perspective on inclusivity, encouraging acceptance of those who don't conform to traditional gender norms.
Main Topics:
- Drugs In Mesoamerican Culture
- Sex In Mesoamerican Culture
- Human Sacrifice In Mesoamerican Culture
- Christopher Columbus
- The Columbian Exchange
- Ponce de Leon and Friends
Step into the Time Machine: Hit that subscribe button to ensure you never miss an episode! Support our podcast by leaving a review, sharing your favorite episodes with friends, and helping us spread the love for all things history-related. Subscribe, engage, and be part of the RPTM Podcast community today!
Hosts:
Ryan Lancaster
ARCHIE
HILDY
Producer: Ryan Lancaster
Executive Producer: Ryan Lancaster
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Editor: Ryan Lancaster
Theme Music Composer: Craig Riley
Artwork Design: Ryan Lancaster
Recorded at: Ryan Lancaster Studios
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ryan.g.lancaster@gmail.com
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LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO:
Content Ownership and Use
All content, including but not limited to audio recordings, text, images, graphics, and any other material available through the Podcast, is protected by copyright law. The Podcast and its content are owned and operated by Professor Lancaster unless otherwise indicated.
Permissions and Fair Use
You may listen to, download, and share episodes of the Podcast for personal, non-commercial use only. Any other use, including but not limited to reproduction, distribution, or public performance, requires the explicit written consent of Professor Lancaster.
Third-Party Content
The Podcast may feature content or materials from third parties, including guest interviews, music, or excerpts from other sources. The rights and permissions for such third-party content are the responsibility of the respective copyright owners, and their use may be subject to separate terms and conditions.
Disclaimers
The Podcast is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in the Podcast are those of the hosts and guests.
The Podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with relevant professionals for specific advice related to their circumstances.
Changes to Terms
We reserve the right to modify, amend, or update this Legal and Copyright Information anytime. It is your responsibility to review this document periodically for changes.

Tuesday Oct 31, 2023
RPTM Podcast #065: Whistle Stops and Illuminating Watts
Tuesday Oct 31, 2023
Tuesday Oct 31, 2023
Episode #065: Whistle Stops and Illuminating Watts
10/31/2023
After the Civil War, America grappled with its identity, and this struggle had profound implications for politics, society, and the economy. The end of Reconstruction marked a worsening situation for African Americans, as Jim Crow laws and inadequate government protection left them vulnerable to discrimination. The shift from agriculture to industrialization created wealth disparities and labor discontent, with workers unhappy about their conditions. In response to these injustices, the NAACP was founded, and influential leaders like Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Du Bois emerged. The legal validation of racial segregation in the Civil Rights Cases of 1883 exemplified the challenges faced during this period, known as the Gilded Age. While the United States gained global power, it continued to grapple with civil rights and cultural achievements, with these historical roots evident in contemporary debates. This era serves as a crucial source of lessons for the present, highlighting the importance of remembering the past.
The Great Railroad Strike of 1877 was a pivotal moment in American history that began when workers' pay was reduced by 10 percent at the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in Martinsburg, West Virginia. The protest quickly spread nationwide, revealing the interconnectedness of American workers. Dissatisfaction with poor working conditions and low wages highlighted the growing disparity between laborers and large corporations. This event led to significant changes, including enacting new laws governing labor-management relations, the emergence of labor unions, and gradual improvements in worker conditions. However, the strike also witnessed violence and the use of the military to quell protests, exposing weaknesses in the nation's systems. These strikes marked a significant shift in the workers' movement, fostering more organized and vocal demands for labor rights that extended into the Progressive Era. Their importance endures as they continue to shape ongoing struggles for fair pay, safe workplaces, and the right to organize, making the events of 1877 a guiding force in the fight for workers' rights today.
Main Topics:
- Great Railroad Strike of 1877
- Eadweard Muybridge
- Thomas Edison's Light Bulb
- Carlisle Indian Industrial School
- Dudley Allen Sargent
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Hosts:
Ryan Lancaster
ARCHIE
HILDY
Producer: Ryan Lancaster
Executive Producer: Ryan Lancaster
Sound Engineer: Ryan Lancaster
Editor: Ryan Lancaster
Theme Music Composer: Craig Riley
Artwork Design: Ryan Lancaster
Recorded at: Ryan Lancaster Studios
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LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO:
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All content, including but not limited to audio recordings, text, images, graphics, and any other material available through the Podcast, is protected by copyright law. The Podcast and its content are owned and operated by Professor Lancaster unless otherwise indicated.
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You may listen to, download, and share episodes of the Podcast for personal, non-commercial use only. Any other use, including but not limited to reproduction, distribution, or public performance, requires the explicit written consent of Professor Lancaster.
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The Podcast is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in the Podcast are those of the hosts and guests.
The Podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with relevant professionals for specific advice related to their circumstances.
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Friday Nov 10, 2023
Episode #066: Threads and Dread
Friday Nov 10, 2023
Friday Nov 10, 2023
Episode #066: Threads and Dread
11/10/2023
Historians, like detectives, use clues to understand past events and interpret findings to determine what happened. Irish historian Tom Reilly spent 30 years trying to rehabilitate Oliver Cromwell's image, challenging historical narratives. Historians and detectives gather evidence, evaluate sources, and shape our understanding of the past.
Fashion in the 1880s marked societal changes, with new materials and designers like Charles Frederick Worth and Paul Poiret transforming it into cultural expression. Arab immigrants in the 1880s influenced American society through agriculture, trade, culture, and arts.
President James A. Garfield's assassination in 1881 prompted discussions about mental health and presidential security, leading to changes in the succession process—Clara Barton's creation of the American Red Cross in 1881 showcased humanitarianism's growth and global impact.
The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 aimed to keep Chinese immigrants out, impacting Chinese Americans and shaping the Asian American identity. Understanding this history is crucial to addressing discrimination and unity among immigrant communities.
Main Topics:
- Rule #1 of History
- 1880s Fashion
- Arab Immigration
- James Garfield Assassinated
- Clara Barton and Red Cross
- Chinese Exclusion Act
Step into the Time Machine: Hit that subscribe button to ensure you never miss an episode! Support our podcast by leaving a review, sharing your favorite episodes with friends, and helping us spread the love for all things history-related. Subscribe, engage, and be part of the RPTM Podcast community today!
Hosts:
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HILDY
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LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO:
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All content, including but not limited to audio recordings, text, images, graphics, and any other material available through the Podcast, is protected by copyright law. The Podcast and its content are owned and operated by Professor Lancaster unless otherwise indicated.
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The Podcast is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in the Podcast are those of the hosts and guests.
The Podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with relevant professionals for specific advice related to their circumstances.
Changes to Terms
We reserve the right to modify, amend, or update this Legal and Copyright Information anytime. It is your responsibility to review this document periodically for changes.

Wednesday Nov 29, 2023
RPTM Podcast #067: Caffeinated Catastrophes
Wednesday Nov 29, 2023
Wednesday Nov 29, 2023
Episode #067: Caffeinated Catastrophes
11/29/2023
In the lively tale of late 19th-century America, the labor movement appears akin to a defiant ensemble of discontented factory workers, akin to a rebellious musical group, ardently advocating for an eight-hour workday through strikes and boycotts as their transformative instruments. However, within the anthem of triumph, internal discord and oversights tarnish the glow of victory, laying bare the movement's failure to address the concerns of those on the margins. The National Labor Union, orchestrating its symphony of dissatisfaction, inadvertently excludes certain workers from the concert hall, underscoring the imperative for a more comprehensive pursuit of justice.
Meanwhile, over in California, the legal journey of Mamie Tape against racial bias serves as a poignant counterpoint. Deprived of access to public education due to her Chinese heritage, Tape's family wages a legal battle before the California Supreme Court, achieving a momentary triumph against segregation. Yet, the ominous reverberations of Plessy v. Ferguson loom, emphasizing the ongoing hurdles confronted by marginalized communities. The interweaving of Mamie Tape's story with the tumultuous sounds of the labor movement underscores the intricacies of combating discrimination, emerging as a symbol of the enduring quest for equal education and contributing threads to America's complex historical fabric. Collectively, these diverse narratives propel us toward a future where justice aligns seamlessly with the harmonious melody of progress, echoing the nation's collective aspirations.
Main Topics:
- Labor Unions
- Tape v. Hurley
- Rock Springs Massacre
- Haymarket Riot
- Coca-Cola
- Hells Canyon Massacre
Step into the Time Machine: Hit that subscribe button to ensure you never miss an episode! Support our podcast by leaving a review, sharing your favorite episodes with friends, and helping us spread the love for all things history-related. Subscribe, engage, and be part of the RPTM Podcast community today!
Hosts:
Ryan Lancaster
ARCHIE
HILDY
Producer: Ryan Lancaster
Executive Producer: Ryan Lancaster
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Editor: Ryan Lancaster
Theme Music Composer: Craig Riley
Artwork Design: Ryan Lancaster
Recorded at: Ryan Lancaster Studios
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LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO:
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All content, including but not limited to audio recordings, text, images, graphics, and any other material available through the Podcast, is protected by copyright law. The Podcast and its content are owned and operated by Professor Lancaster unless otherwise indicated.
Permissions and Fair Use
You may listen to, download, and share episodes of the Podcast for personal, non-commercial use only. Any other use, including but not limited to reproduction, distribution, or public performance, requires the explicit written consent of Professor Lancaster.
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The Podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with relevant professionals for specific advice related to their circumstances.
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Tuesday Dec 12, 2023
RPTM Podcast #068: Softball Shenannigans and Land Confetti
Tuesday Dec 12, 2023
Tuesday Dec 12, 2023
Episode #068: Softball Shenanigans and Land Confetti
12/12/2023
In the tangled dance of human history, softball emerges as a rebellious phoenix, rising from the chill of a winter baseball hangover. George Hancock, fueled perhaps by Chicago's icy winds, birthed this alternative sport in 1895, unknowingly hurling a curveball at the status quo. The Women's International Softball Federation, born in 1933, didn't just hit a home run; it shattered the patriarchy. The diamond transformed from a girl's best friend into her stage for rebellion, as women worldwide swung bats, breaking not just glass ceilings but centuries-old traditions. Yet, within this triumphant narrative of progress, the dugout shadows cast unequal opportunities and recognition struggles, creating a complex dance of contradictions—one step forward, two steps back, and a pirouette toward gender equality.
Rewind to the 1887 Dawes Act, a grand illusion of American assimilation. Native Americans, handed a one-way ticket to the melting pot express, saw their lands privatized in a cultural heist masquerading as progress. Forget softball; this was the hardball of cultural erasure. Simultaneously, William Dorsey Swann, in 1891, was turning heads—literally. Arrested for defying gender norms, Swann became the OG drag revolutionary. His "Society for Human Rights" wasn't merely a club; it was a glittery middle finger to the establishment, propelling LGBTQ+ rights into the spotlight. Fast forward to the late 1800s, when Kodak cameras and Edison's Kinetoscope ruled. George Eastman gave the masses the power to freeze moments, while Edison's Kinetoscope made still photos seem as archaic as a typewriter in a texting world. In this whirlwind of history, softball shares the stage with Native American tragedy, LGBTQ+ defiance, and the birth of modern media, creating a kaleidoscope of progress and setbacks, revolutions and contradictions, leaving us to ponder if we're in a utopia or just the punchline to a cosmic joke. Life's game unfolds, and we're playing catch with destiny, hoping for a curveball we can knock out of the park.
Main Topics:
- Softball
- The Dawes Act
- William Dorsey Swann
- Kodak Camera
- The Kinetoscope
Step into the Time Machine: Hit that subscribe button to ensure you never miss an episode! Support our podcast by leaving a review, sharing your favorite episodes with friends, and helping us spread the love for all things history-related. Subscribe, engage, and be part of the RPTM Podcast community today!
Hosts:
Ryan Lancaster
ARCHIE
HILDY
Producer: Ryan Lancaster
Executive Producer: Ryan Lancaster
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Editor: Ryan Lancaster
Theme Music Composer: Craig Riley
Artwork Design: Ryan Lancaster
Recorded at: Ryan Lancaster Studios
Email:
ryan.g.lancaster@gmail.com
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LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO:
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All content, including but not limited to audio recordings, text, images, graphics, and any other material available through the Podcast, is protected by copyright law. The Podcast and its content are owned and operated by Professor Lancaster unless otherwise indicated.
Permissions and Fair Use
You may listen to, download, and share episodes of the Podcast for personal, non-commercial use only. Any other use, including but not limited to reproduction, distribution, or public performance, requires the explicit written consent of Professor Lancaster.
Third-Party Content
The Podcast may feature content or materials from third parties, including guest interviews, music, or excerpts from other sources. The rights and permissions for such third-party content are the responsibility of the respective copyright owners, and their use may be subject to separate terms and conditions.
Disclaimers
The Podcast is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in the Podcast are those of the hosts and guests.
The Podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with relevant professionals for specific advice related to their circumstances.
Changes to Terms
We reserve the right to modify, amend, or update this Legal and Copyright Information anytime. It is your responsibility to review this document periodically for changes.

Monday Oct 21, 2024
RPTM #069: Dude, Where's My Toledo?
Monday Oct 21, 2024
Monday Oct 21, 2024
Episode #069: Dude, Where's My Toledo?
10/21/2024
Picture a group of fur-clad Frenchmen navigating the dense woods of the Great Lakes, grappling with Native American place names, and then, in a stroke of resilience, slapping on their own more pronounceable versions like "Detroit." This was the beginning of Michigan's transformation, as the Reasonably Priced Time Machine whisks us back to these determined voyageurs who paddled through the wilderness, trading beaver pelts and fencing commerce as if bartering for baguettes. Their mission was not just to coexist with the locals; they were determined to carve their legacy into history, leaving behind a cultural patchwork with mispronounced names and the faint aroma of fish and nostalgia. Centuries later, we're left with a state shaped not by careful planning, but by the resilience and determination of those who stumbled, shot, or politicked their way across the landscape.
Fast forward to 1787, and the bureaucratic knife carved up the wilderness with the Northwest Ordinance, a masterpiece of legal cartography that diced up the territory like a middle manager rearranging cubicles. Then came the War of 1812, only for American troops to rally at the Battle of the Thames like frat boys scrambling for the last slice of pizza. And let's not forget Lewis Cass, the territorial governor who aspired to drain swamps and charm settlers, wielding policies like a multitool to civilize Michigan's mosquito-laden frontier. The saga wouldn't be complete without the "Toledo War," a comical spat with Ohio over a murky strip of land that ended without a single shot fired, leaving Michigan clutching the Upper Peninsula as a consolation prize. Through it all, Michigan emerged as a place shaped by accidents, arguments, and a dash of ambition—a curious blend of familiar and absurd, stitched together in a hurried attempt at civilization.
Main Topics:
- French Exploration
- 1787 Northwest Ordinance
- War of 1812
- Lewis Cass
- Toledo War
Step into the Time Machine: Hit that subscribe button to ensure you never miss an episode! Support our podcast by leaving a review, sharing your favorite episodes with friends, and helping us spread the love for all things history-related. Subscribe, engage, and be part of the RPTM Podcast community today!
Hosts:
Ryan Lancaster
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HILDY
Producer: Ryan Lancaster
Executive Producer: Ryan Lancaster
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Editor: Ryan Lancaster
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Monday Oct 28, 2024
RPTM Podcast Episode Seventy: Fires, Falls, and Fugitive Freedom
Monday Oct 28, 2024
Monday Oct 28, 2024
Episode #070: Fires, Falls, and Fugitive Freedom
10/28/2024
Michigan’s history is a chaotic blend of scrappy disputes, gritty labor, and reluctant reinvention. It all began with the infamous “Toledo War,” a monumental fuss over a swampy border with Ohio. This war, which ended not with victory parades but with Michigan reluctantly accepting the Upper Peninsula, was a transformative event that shaped the state's future. This rugged region would later prove to be a jackpot of copper. The mid-1800s transformed this untamed wilderness into a booming mining hub, as laborers braved harsh winters and unforgiving conditions to extract the precious metal. Michigan quietly became a critical link in the Underground Railroad. Here, ordinary citizens, abolitionists, and free African Americans risked everything to guide freedom seekers across the last stretch to Canada, proving that the state’s true riches were found not only underground but also in the resilience and courage of its people.
The fire of 1871 added another twist, leaving the Thumb region scorched and forcing the state to rebuild with a shift toward brick and steel. This catastrophic event not only reshaped the physical landscape of the region but also influenced its architecture and urban planning. Then, in 1913, Henry Ford’s assembly line redefined Michigan’s identity, turning the state into the epicenter of American manufacturing. This brilliant yet dehumanizing innovation reshaped society, creating a new middle class while binding prosperity to the relentless rhythm of the factory floor. From disputed swampland and underground copper to the hum of assembly lines, Michigan’s story is one of perpetual transformation—stitching together moments of conflict, calamity, and ingenuity into a patchwork quilt of history, where resilience is always the thread that holds it together.
Main Topics:
- Michigan Statehood
- Copper Rush
- Underground Railroad
- Great Fire of 1871
- Henry Ford's Assembly Line
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Hosts:
Ryan Lancaster
ARCHIE
HILDY
Producer: Ryan Lancaster
Executive Producer: Ryan Lancaster
Sound Engineer: Ryan Lancaster
Editor: Ryan Lancaster
Theme Music Composer: Craig Riley
Artwork Design: Ryan Lancaster
Recorded at: Ryan Lancaster Studios
Email:
ryan.g.lancaster@gmail.com
Social Media:
Facebook: Ryan Lancaster
Instagram: ryan.g.lancaster
Twitter: @MayorMcSweet
YouTube: RyanGLancaster
Website: www. ryanglancaster.com
LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO:
Content Ownership and Use
All content, including but not limited to audio recordings, text, images, graphics, and any other material available through the Podcast, is protected by copyright law. The Podcast and its content are owned and operated by Professor Lancaster unless otherwise indicated.
Permissions and Fair Use
You may listen to, download, and share episodes of the Podcast for personal, non-commercial use only. Any other use, including but not limited to reproduction, distribution, or public performance, requires the explicit written consent of Professor Lancaster.
Third-Party Content
The Podcast may feature content or materials from third parties, including guest interviews, music, or excerpts from other sources. The rights and permissions for such third-party content are the responsibility of the respective copyright owners, and their use may be subject to separate terms and conditions.
Disclaimers
The Podcast is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in the Podcast are those of the hosts and guests.
The Podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with relevant professionals for specific advice related to their circumstances.
Changes to Terms
We reserve the right to modify, amend, or update this Legal and Copyright Information anytime. It is your responsibility to review this document periodically for changes.