The Road to Now

495
History #200

Bob Crawford (The Avett Brothers) & Dr. Ben Sawyer (MTSU History) share conversations with great thinkers from a variety of backgrounds – historians, artists, legal scholars, political figures and more –who help us uncover the many roads that run between past and present. For more information, visit TheRoadToNow.comIf you'd like to support our work, join us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheRoadToNow

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Recent Reviews
  • TruckingVic
    Very educational!
    You guys are great! Thank you for what you do. I’ve learned a lot from both of you and your guests.
  • ky dano
    Language disappointment
    Dudes! I really do love your exceptional podcast covering the details of history. I was especially tracking with your third-party candidate series. But you guys dropped the ball with the 2016 election edition. Come on guys, can you not have given your guest a heads up that you run a fairly clean language show. It just took me by surprise since all the other third-party candidate additions had very little if any F bombs or the S word. Now I’m not Mr. sensitive ears so please don’t call me out on that. But I do think words like those just dumb down our language and we could do better than that. Would’ve given you five stars if it wasn’t for that episode. I would appreciate it if you clean things up a little bit. Thanks guys for your other shows. Lots of good stuff.
  • DenaInNC
    I normally like your podcast BUT…
    I have to agree with those why say you’ve become too liberal. Joe Biden has been an awful president.
  • rhcp4ever
    Some good stuff but definitely a liberal bias
    Some of the early stuff is very good and there isn’t not a ton of historical in accuracies. However, as time goes on, you can definitely hear the liberal leaning talking points versus true historical stories. Take, for instance, their claim the Hoover handpicked Reagan and ushered in corruption. if you read the Hoover archives, it is clear that there was very little to no relationship that existed. I would love to hear more unbiased historical tellings from this pod.
  • elvanmcm
    Great podcast!
    Find it very informative and interesting! Thank you!
  • Bostonbeerman
    Love you guys!
    Long time listener. Thanks so much for your work. I love the podcast. I really enjoyed the episode on Stephen Foster today. Great discussion with the panel.
  • Dog Walker - Podcast Lover!
    Always a good listen!
    Bob and Ben discuss our American history with joy and awareness! They often start with connections to the past, but then they usually move into examination of our overall culture. Somehow, they keep things friendly and cordial, even when they are exploring difficult ideas.
  • Henery76642886444&9
    Stick to History please
    Please stick to History which you guys are very interesting . I listen to escape politics not listen to your views on Trump!!
  • spun-honey
    Road to Now
    Always informative and interesting. Bob & Ben are engaging and I have learned so much! Very enjoyable.
  • imarchon
    Hit and miss 60 / 40% of the time.
    Too bad the left leaning interpretation of historical events (recent and past) from the Professor permeates the narrative of the week.
  • FigWhite
    Learning about history through fun conversations
    Bob and Ben make so many great points in this episode #279 during their discussion on President Harding, AI and UFOs with a comedic twist that makes learning so much fun! If you aren’t already following the Road to Now as a history lover or just enjoy intriguing conversations, check this podcast out now and subscribe.
  • 2464blue
    Excellent and knowledgeable hosts. Amazing guests
    Sometimes hosts and knowledgeable but can’t host. Sometimes hosts don’t know anything and ask horrible questions. The Road to Now is neither. Ben and Bob are amazingly prepared and knowledgeable and can engage guests with meaningful and insightful questions. If you want to learn more history this is the podcast for you.
  • Chaimama28
    History that’s relevant
    Great hosts with interesting guests. History stories are fun to hear.
  • PASperry
    No politics please.
    I turned to politics to escape politics. I would think a show about history can easily avoid current political arguments. Otherwise, five stars.
  • sawyer1177
    Super insightful and fun
    Great history conversational podcast
  • Ty5225
    Great show
    Greatest professor and most chill podcast ever
  • MaryAustinTX
    Dana ONeil
    Amazing podcast! So enjoyed it.
  • RedSkyBurns
    Great stuff here
    Thoughtful laid back approach to a variety of topics. Solid middle of the road content which is oh so appreciated in our polarized times.
  • Mare from NJ
    The Road To Now
    I think I know a lot of things, but this 68 year old grandmother stimulates some brain cells every time I listen.
  • FrankMEdwards
    Accessible history making learning fun
    I’ve been listening to the Road to Now for years now, but felt compelled to share my love of this podcast with the world. Bob and Ben bring a deep understanding and carefully researched questions and opinions to each episode. You really never know what topic they will address next, but each one is educational and delivered in a way that is accessible to all listeners, whether they are history buffs or not. There are always facts, laughs, and intelligent discussions, and I find myself buying the books of their very interesting guests. So, come on, give the Road to Know a chance. You won’t be disappointed.
  • JonR79
    Good Show
    I love listening to this show and learning about various historical subjects from various perspectives. I look forward to new episodes every Monday when I wake up! So glad I found this podcast a few years back when they did a segment on SiriusXM POTUS channel.
  • Seahawksfan73
    One of the better history pods available
    Excellent podcast with interesting subjects. Love how they let guests explain their answers rather than cutting them off. Show also does not come off as overtly political which can be hard to find.
  • Lisa@1969
    Episode 220
    Really enjoyed this one! Made me want to revisit the museum.
  • girlie79
    Interesting
    I love the variety of guests and topics! Ben and Bob do an excellent job of researching each week and pulling out the information that is relevant and interesting. Sometimes serious topics but very relatable and fascinating.
  • bfred417
    Swept Away
    Just listened to the Swept Away episode and absolutely loved the dialogue between Bob, Ben, John and Johnny. Crossing my fingers that this show makes it to NY. And excited to keep tuning into future episodes of RTN to hear new stories and interviews. Thanks all!
  • Bpadilla9
    Every episode surprises me!
    I never would think that something like the history of Coca Cola would be so captivating. I always enjoy it more than expected!
  • Amazinggmama
    Interesting, informative and funny!
    Love these guys and their guests. ❤️
  • Rob D in Denver
    Outstanding discussion from outstanding experts
    I have been listening to RTN since the beginning. I have never regretted spending the time with Ben and Bob and have always closed the episode knowing more than when I pressed play. I cannot wait to hear more about how we got to where we are
  • jbaileyduncaniii
    My new favorite podcast
    As an Avett Brothers fan, I knew of Bob Crawford as a great bass player but I was completely blown away by these podcast episodes. I love their interesting guests/topics and the friendly banter in each episode. I’m a high school history teacher and plan to recommend this podcast to my students. Top notch work, guys!
  • Sports Instructor
    Knowledge is Power
    I am a lifelong educator and 18-year veteran high school history teacher. I stumbled upon “The Road to Know” podcast in the fall and am addicted. I learn something new every time I listen and the guests are insightful. A must listen for anyone who wants to learn more about American history. Ben and Bob are terrific hosts. Look forward to going back and listening to every episode over the next six months.
  • jheick
    “Next question”
    Good idea for podcast. However the hosts political views taint the reporting. Once historians and journalists deviate from reporting historical facts and events, devoid of their own likes and dislikes of whom and what, then everything they say or write must be relegated to opinion. Otherwise they are simply trying to validate their own beliefs by trying to convince the audience that their view is the true and correct way to perceive what they have reported to you. Next question, because you are obviously to slow to understand what you are asking is beneath me and that I have already answered you. Yes Ben, you sound exactly like that!! Arrogant and condescending. It is only when you know what you don’t know, that you can appreciate the fact you are not the smartest man in the world. But, then you don’t know that yet do you? Next question!!!
  • nicknames are stipud
    Not for me
    Not for me. If I wasn’t out in 45 degree weather walking I would have turned off much quicker. I’m sure there is an audience for this.
  • Gena Re
    Miss America
    What a neat walk down memory lane! Thank you.
  • PeachK3476:
    Too woke
    1. Defend the left 2. Bash the right
  • Comm101
    Coming Together with History
    This podcast is like hanging out with some guys over beer, having the greatest, warmest conversation - and then you find out you’re friends with university professors. And they’re just guys you know. Based in the south (and southerners are the best story tellers!) this pod gets me out of the “coastal” mindset and takes me to a wonderful part of the country where life is recalled and shared in a different way. The conversations bring new perspectives and leaves you feeling relaxed and a little smarter. (You aren’t left alarmed with visions of doom.) Time to look forward to and really get connected.
  • skcbskekxb
    For straight talk
    Complex historical theories/stories broken into understandable, straightforward talk.
  • JMK2617
    Today’s Events With Historical Perspective
    It would be disingenuous of me to rate this without first disclosing that I am a huge Avett Brother’s fan. That’s how I found out about the podcast. However that does not play into my rating and love for RTN. Having always enjoyed history this show has created an appetite for me to learn more about how we as a country/people got to where we are now. It gives me some perspective of why we are so divided. I think Bob and Ben make a good team, one that has devoted his career to history and the other that is like me and catching up as quickly as possible.
  • KBPDCST
    Yes
    Yes
  • wdd
    The Road to kNOWledge
    Ben Sawyer and Bob Crawford bring current events and historical context to life through lively and engaging conversations. Their guests are excellent and their topics are timely. Great podcast.
  • Fancy_King
    Dr. Ben 4-life!
    This show is JUST. 2. SWEEEEEEEEET!
  • Gooner4Life
    Yes, please.
    A show that takes a thoughtful approach to not only the issues of today, but also does deep dives into the history that drives so much of our news cycle. Yes, please.
  • Giblev
    What a WONDERFUL podcast!
    Being a major fan of the band, The Avett Brothers, as well as a lover of history, this seemed like a “no-brainer” to check out and I could not be any happier! Bob and Ben are dynamic together while covering an eclectic range of topics. I’ve started with all the obvious TAB-related shows but EACH episode is informative and fun! A must listen to for anyone interested in information and history ... Ty B and B!
  • Springsyeti
    Be informed!
    I am ashamed that it took me so long to donate and become a member. After spending most of my younger life in public school before finishing it off with Catholic guilt my understanding of history was a bit warped. This is more evident the older I get and the kids ask questions about the history of the US. Listening to this podcast and reading several books from authors on here I feel I starting to get a grasp on the founding of this country. Keep it up!
  • skooledby
    Militia episode was great... they all are
    maybe take it down a notch on the “listening is not agreeing” sentiment that was voiced a few times. Nobody is mistaking you for being a pro militia podcast.
  • Adamlarson14
    Good smart guys talking about interesting stuff
    Love this podcast. Always time well spent listening to these two approach interesting topics with open minds and great guests.
  • jeff topping
    The insurrection
    Just finished The Insurrection episode. Another consistently great one. Great to hear intelligent people sharing logical opinions. Congrats on your masters Bob!
  • TehKillCreek
    Something for everyone
    I love RTN! This podcast has something for everyone. Super interesting conversation and backstory on topics relevant today.
  • augustmeyeravett2020
    Compelling Podcast from my favorite bassist!
    It really makes me think about how life is just a perspective, and how we should really think about inner feelings and be who we really are! Also, bob the bassist is the best!!!
  • BronnyBetz
    Interesting and Timely
    This is a great podcast for history lovers and people who just want to be entertained. Exposes the everyday person to academia in a very accessible way. Thanks Bob, Ben and crew!!!
  • JeanetteK123
    My Favorite Podcast!
    I listen to The Road to Now regularly and it's great! I've recommended it to my friends and they love it too. A wonderful variety of topics. Good job Ben and Bob!
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