I recently reflected on Stanley Tucci’s “Tucci in Italy,” where each episode blends history, regional culture, and mouthwatering cuisine - from Lazio’s vineyards to Adriatic fishing villages. Tucci’s passion and storytelling took me back to my own Italian travels and inspired anew. Read the full story.
On Saturday June 14, I was asked to give remarks about the history and context of the American flag over the last 250 years of history. These are the words I shared in historic Mullinix Park in Frederick, Maryland.
George Clooney’s "Good Night, and Good Luck" revisits Edward R. Murrow’s brave challenge to McCarthy’s Red Scare—and feels eerily relevant as today’s press faces political attacks and lawsuits. In this week's Monday Dispatches, I reflect on why Murrow’s steadfast defense of truth reminds us why an independent media matters. Read the full story.
Dive into a compelling podcast episode where writer Derek Thompson interviews historian Richard J. Evans about his book "Hitler’s People." Hear fresh research on Nazi support, Weimar politics, and antisemitism as Evans debunks myths and reveals how ordinary Germans enabled Hitler’s rise to absolute power. Read my full reflection and listen to the podcast.
Discover how Rick Steves’ new memoir On the Hippie Trail reignited my passion and need for travel - tracing his 1978 trek from Istanbul to Kathmandu and exploring how adventure breaks down fear and builds bridges. My latest Monday Dispatch reflection on wanderlust and cultural connection, with some love for the late Anthony Bourdain. Read the full story.
Join me for the first Monday Dispatch as I explore Daniel Mason’s novel North Woods - a vivid tale tracing centuries of life, nature, and change in the mountains of western Massachusetts. Discover how great fiction reshapes historical perspective and reminds us that the story is one of transformation. Read the full story.