Roots of Reality

Historian Ben Baumann talks about 2000s pop culture and what 2000s kids remember from the era.

In this Roots of Reality Experiences episode, historian Ben Baumann interviews Sporting KC legend Matt Besler about the origins and evolution of professional soccer in Kansas City, his career with Sporting KC, and more.

Historian Ben Baumann talks about the history of the US soccer team, the development of professional soccer in America, and how far the sport has come in the United States.

Historian Ben Baumann talks about the history of language and why so many languages are going extinct today.

In this Roots of Reality Experiences episode, historian Ben Baumann speaks with Prof. Will Lamb about the origins of Scottish Gaelic, its historic decline, and the modern efforts to save it.

Historian Ben Baumann talks about the origins of ice hockey, the beginning of the NHL, and the greatest players ever.

In this Roots of Reality Experiences episode, historian Ben Baumann speaks with Rob O'Gara about Yale University's hockey national championship team, how college hockey has changed, and Rob's journey to the NHL.

Historian Ben Baumann Provides a historical perspective on the future of America

In this Roots of Reality Experiences episode, historian Ben Baumann speaks with Dr. Jason Schlude about why ancient history is relevant, how ancient history influenced the founding fathers, and the ancient political challenges that American democracy faces today.

Historian Ben Baumann examines how authoritarian movements have challenged democratic systems throughout history and why these examples remain relevant today.

In this episode of Roots of Reality Experiences, historian Ben Baumann speaks with Reed Galen about civic participation, democratic traditions, and their role in public life.

Historian Ben Baumann discusses historical challenges to American democracy and their continuing relevance.

In this episode of Roots of Reality Experiences, historian Ben Baumann speaks with former Rep. Susan Molinari about the evolution of American politics, changes in party dynamics, and the lessons history offers today.

Historian Ben Baumann explores recent trends in American politics and how individuals’ perspectives on political figures evolve.

Historian Ben Baumann talks with Carlton Larson about treason in early American history, its legal evolution, and lessons for today.

Historian Ben Baumann discusses how treason has been understood in American history and the lessons it offers.

In this Roots of Reality Experiences episode, historian Ben Baumann speaks with Dr. Robert Baumann about growing up during the cold war, the history of the cold war, and his experiences living in the Soviet Union.

Historian Ben Baumann talks about living through times of uncertainty and gives examples from his own family history, which can perhaps help us navigate uncertain times. (Poem by Dr. Benjamin McGraw Rush)

In this Roots of Reality Experiences episode, historian Ben Baumann speaks with Vanessa Woods about puppy intelligence, misconceptions about dogs, and why dogs and humans bond so well.

Historian Ben Baumann gives a brief history of dogs, their origins, and why they are so special to our species. (Pictured: Speedy, Plato, Osiris, Tsar, and Shadow)

In this Roots of Reality Experiences episode, historian Ben Baumann speaks with Dr. Kathryn Brownell about the most troubling presidents in American history, how American media has changed historically, and how presidential effectiveness has been evaluated. Photo credit: Alex South

Historian Ben Baumann looks at how presidential language has shaped public debate in American history.

In this Roots of Reality Experiences episode, historian Ben Baumann speaks with Dr. Christopher Federico about the various factors that determine whether someone is politically engaged or not, as well as the type of voters which were crucial in previously electing Donald Trump.

Historian Ben Baumann discusses patterns of voter participation and their historical impact on U.S. elections.

In this Roots of Reality Experiences episode, historian Ben Baumann speaks with Tony Scalzo about how he and his band Fastball chose their musical style, the popularity of the song "The Way", and the importance of staying grounded in the music industry.