Beyond Mount Rushmore cover art

Beyond Mount Rushmore

Beyond Mount Rushmore

By: Podcast Playground
Listen for free

About this listen

Beyond Mount Rushmore dives into the stories your history teacher definitely skipped. Each week, we explore forgotten presidents and their sketchy scandals, bizarre executive orders, and historic near-misses. Plus, facts so weird you'll think we made them up.

From FDR's final words, "I have a terrific headache," to Eleanor Roosevelt's lifelong "companion" in the White House, we're here to prove that history is anything but boring. Whether you're a hardcore history nerd or just love laughing at old dead guys' dumb decisions, buckle up for a wild ride through America's lesser-known past. New episodes drop every week—perfect for fans of dark humor, surprising trivia, and stories that Netflix wouldn't dare touch. Hosted by self-proclaimed presidential historian Stan Nawalaniec (owner of three Warren G. Harding bobbleheads) and co-host Jeff Hickcox (the voice of reason).

Political Science Politics & Government World
Episodes
  • Beyond Mount Rushmore - Andrew Jackson, preview
    May 19 2025

    In the upcoming episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we dive into the tumultuous life of Andrew Jackson, a figure known for his complex legacy as a war hero, duelist, and notorious grudge holder. We'll explore his controversial signing of the Indian Removal Act, his remarkable survival of an assassination attempt where both pistols misfired, and the deep-seated blame he placed on John Quincy Adams for his wife's death. Join us as we unpack the messy and outrageous details of Andrew Jackson's life, revealing the man behind the monument. Don't miss this episode dropping on May 26th, available wherever you get your podcasts!

    Show More Show Less
    2 mins
  • Dressed to the Nines, Shot at the Expo. The Stylish Rise and Sudden Fall of President William McKinley
    May 12 2025

    In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we dive into the life and legacy of our 25th president, William McKinley. We start by discussing McKinley's unique place in history, including being the first president to have his inauguration filmed and one of the first to have his voice recorded.

    We explore his obsession with cleanliness and his social nature, which made him a beloved figure during his presidency. McKinley was known for his effective handshaking technique, which allowed him to connect with as many people as possible during public events. However, this very trait may have contributed to his tragic assassination at the Pan American Expo in 1901 by Leon Czolgosz, a Polish anarchist.

    We also touch on the aftermath of McKinley's assassination, including the swift execution of his assassin, Czolgosz, and the controversial role of Thomas Edison in the portrayal of the execution.

    Join us next time for another episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore.

    Show More Show Less
    25 mins
  • Beyond Mount Rushmore - Dressed to the Nines, preview
    May 5 2025

    Beyond Mount Rushmore dives into the stories your history teacher skipped. We explore forgotten presidents and their sketchy scandals, bizarre executive orders, and historic near-misses. Don't miss episode 3, Dressed to the Nines, Shot at the Expo. An episode all about the stylish rise and sudden fall of President William McKinley. Subscribe to the Beyond Mount Rushmore podcast everywhere.

    Show More Show Less
    2 mins

What listeners say about Beyond Mount Rushmore

Average Customer Ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.

In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.