Stories to be tolled

In this podcast episode of 'Stories to be tolled', Tracy DW delves into the recent military escalation between India and Pakistan, sparked by the tragic Pahalgan terrorist attack. Tracy examines the historical roots of this enduring conflict, tracing back to the partition of British India in 1947 and the series of wars over the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir. She highlights the complexities...

In this episode Tracy DW shares her reflections on the US military strikes on Iran that took place on June 22nd, 2005. While she questions the narrative of triumph presented by the Trump administration, she reveals the discrepancies between proclaimed victories and the harsh realities of warfare. Tracy explores Iran's intricate history, from its colonial influences to the pivotal role oil played i...

Tracy DW is back and celebrates 'Windrush Day 2025' with a look back at her inaugural episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' podcast series, remastered with the podcasts intro and outro and updated notables. Tracy delves into the historical significance of the H.M. Windrush, a ship that symbolises both national pride and controversy within Caribbean communities in Britain. Tracy provides a comprehe...

In this episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' blog series, Tracy DW looks briefly at the contemporary implications of the war and crisis. Through a critical lens, she asks how the narratives of victors and victims shape our understanding of history and reflects on its profound impact on the human condition and the complexities of narrative control in times of conflict. Listeners are urged to confr...

February marks the month of Black History in the US and Canadian Heritage and this poignant episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' blog series delves into the unsettling revelations from Canada, where from 2004, we remember the remains of children that were discovered at former residential schools. These institutions, part of a broader system aimed at erasing Indigenous identities, serve as a grim...

In this thought-provoking episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' blog series, Tracy marks the beginning of a new era in geopolitics with reference to the complex history of the United States, tracing its roots back to a pivotal moment in 1803—the Louisiana Purchase. Tracy DW reflects on this monumental land acquisition not only expanded the 13 original colonies into a vast nation but also set the s...

In this episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' blog series, as the 47 th US Presidential inauguration approaches Tracy DW reflects on the life of Crispus Attucks, a man shrouded in mystery yet immortalised as a symbol of the anti-slavery movement and the complex roles Africans played in the American Revolution, navigating the paradoxical heroism and war crimes they faced. By questioning how African...

In this compelling episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' blog series, Tracy DW kicks off the new year continuing season 5, reflecting on the anniversary and historical significance of British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan's 'Wind of Change' speech. Tracy draws parallels between the transformative winds of 1960, the COVID-19 pandemic and the present-day upheavals brought about by the consequences...

In this the sixth episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' blog post series you can listen in on School Leader, author and podcaster Tracy DW on her journey from writing about the British Empire to creating an expansive learning platform aimed at harnessing the power of multimedia to breathe life into her stories, provide meaningful contexts and foster understanding of complex historical narratives....

In a world where the small things are often overlooked, it's crucial to explore and celebrate the diverse narratives that have shaped our past as well as our present.  In this episode of the 'Stories to be tolled blog' Tracy emphasises the importance of diversity in education, highlighting how incorporating stories about colonial history into the curriculum gives people of colour not only a voice...

"History teaches us about human nature, how the politics and culture intertwined to make us who we are and to show how we evolve as social beings over time." (Tracy DW) "What I want people to do is to make that journey from saying it's our history to actually saying it's my history." (Tracy DW) This thought provoking episode of the blog challenges the traditional, polarised view of history, partic...

"The podcast has helped me learn that yet again, there's so much about our present circumstances in the world that has a link to colonialism and to decisions that now influence a lot of foreign policies that countries have with each other around the world." (Tracy DW)   This next instalment of the blog series delves into the origins of Tracy's podcast, 'Stories to be tolled – the podcast series,'...

"The goal is to inspire curiosity and encourage further exploration of topics like the history of Zimbabwe or the early colonisation of the Caribbean." (Tracy DW) As an author, podcaster, and educator, Tracy's blog series aims to intricately weave historical insight with captivating narrative storytelling, shedding light on the British Empire's colonial past. In the second episode of this blog ser...

Welcome to the fifth season of 'Stories to be tolled – the podcast series!' 'It's hard to believe that way back in Oct 2020 when the very first episode was released that I would still be here sharing my learning journey with you, my co-learners and co-listeners.' (Tracy DW) Tracy's back after a short break and there's no better way to kick off the fifth season and to celebrate 'Black History Month...

'In this season finale of 'Stories to be tolled,' I'd like to take this opportunity to say a huge THANK YOU and re-orientate you, my listeners back to where it all began.' (Tracy DW) By reading extracts from each of her current published titles, Tracy takes us through a poetic exploration of colonial events that have shaped the world. From England's early attempts to colonise the Caribbean, inspir...

In this milestone 100th episode of 'Stories to be tolled,' Tracy commemorates Windrush Day, reflecting on the MV Empire Windrush's historic arrival at Tilbury docks in 1948. Tracy reflects on the rich narratives of the Caribbean migrants who helped rebuild post-war Britain, acknowledging their courage and contributions while also reminding us of the controversies and systemic inequalities that aro...

In this bonus episode of 'Stories to be tolled,' I announce a significant update to the 'Name that Podcast' challenge. Reflecting on the feedback, I've decided to streamline format. Stay tuned as the website will be updated with these new options in the coming days. This change is designed to enhance your experience and encourage more of you to participate in the challenge. Good luck, and happy li...

In this episode of 'Stories to be tolled,' Tracy DW delves into the turbulent history and contemporary challenges of Kenya. Tracy examines the vision of Kenya's current president, William Ruto and questions the implications of recent collaborations and investments from the West, pondering on their true benefits for Kenya's future. Tracy also explores the broader context of African nations grapplin...

In this episode of 'Stories to be tolled,' I'm interviewed by 'The Exchange Show' host Berthana Oxendine where I discuss my book 'Caribbean Wind' and the rich tapestry of history it weaves. Delve with me into the legacy of the Windrush generation and the broader context of British colonial history, where I emphasize the importance of understanding the past to make sense of the present. Once again,...

Sparked by a candid conversation with her father about the latest Bob Marley biopic, 'One Love,' in this episode, Tracy delves into the complexities of interpreting historical facts and cinematic storytelling.   She explores the vibrant tapestry of post-war Caribbean life, the rise of nationalist movements, and the waves of change that swept through British colonies on their journey to independenc...

'Contemplating the Colors of Controversy: Britain's Banner and the Burden of History.' As Britain grapples with the implications of the newly passed Rwanda Bill and the tumultuous St. George's Day celebrations, Tracy prompts us to examine the deeper values and associations tied to being British in 2024. Tracy reflects on the present-day overseas territories – remnants of an empire where the Union...

Unveiling the Union Jack: a symbol of unity or controversy? Dive into the fabric of a nation with Tracy DW as she unfurls the rich and complex tapestry that is the Union Jack. In this thought-provoking episode of 'Stories to be tolled,' she explores the historical evolution of the United Kingdom's flag and the profound narratives it weaves through the union of crowns, faiths, and nations.  Tracy t...

Please note: though you can still enjoy this podcast episode, the format for this competition has changed. Please visit the home page on the website for full details and to participate. You can still contact Tracy via email or on speakpipe with your first name, contact email answer. Three lucky winners will be chosen to receive an exclusive free merch bundle!  Best of luck! How well versed are you...

Please note: though you can still enjoy this podcast episode, the format for this competition has changed. Please visit the home page on the website for full details and to participate. You can still contact Tracy via email or on speakpipe with your first name, contact email answer. Three lucky winners will be chosen to receive an exclusive free merch bundle!  Best of luck! Welcome back to the sec...

Please note: though you can still enjoy this podcast episode, the format for this competition has changed. Please visit the home page on the website for full details and to participate. You can still contact Tracy via email or on speakpipe with your first name, contact email and answer. Three lucky winners will be chosen to receive an exclusive free merch bundle!  Best of luck! How well versed are...