Past radio transcripts of former President Ronald Reagan were being hidden or suppressed. Ronnie Dugger worked tirelessly at getting the transcripts so that people would learn the truth about Reagan. In Dugger’s book, “On Reagan: The Man & His Presidency,” Dugger points out that President Reagan was against the ERA. He didn’t believe in anti-trust, and he opposed every civil rights act every placed in front of him. Dugger said Reagan’s genius was that he’d get elected without people knowing of his records.

Discussing the book "A man's life" with the author Roger Wilkins.

"Where the Steel Winds Blow" is Robert Cromie's anthology of 210 war poems. With his book, Cromie wanted to point out the impact of war. There are also war-related songs throughout the program.

Robert Caro, journalist, discusses his book, "The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York." Caro talks about Robert Moses and the power he had over New York for 44 years. He talks about parks, bridges, highways, and housing that Moses built as he challenged mayors, governors, and the working class. 

In Robert Bendiner's book, "Just Around the Corner: A Highly Selective History of the Thirties," Bendiner covered Herbert Hoover's ineptness and Franklin Roosevelt's heroism. Bendiner also remembers vividly the moment when Huey Long did a jig on the Senate floor. Long further explained that the New Deal had to happen because it was what all the people, of both parties needed.*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations

Although he was not a historian, Robert Bendiner said he believed he could provide accounts of events through a journalist's eyes with his book "Just Around the Corner: A Highly Selective History of the Thirties". It was a depressing time, recalls Bendiner, a time he hopes no one has to experience again. Businesses needed people to buy goods but there wasn't enough money for people to buy food let alone goods and materials. Bendiner recalls Riverside Drive was once affluent and picturesque. The view then turned to one full of Hooverville shacks.

Reporter and author Richard Dudman discusses and reads from his book “Forty Days with the Enemy”, a book recounting his experience being held captive by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Dudman also discusses Michael Morrow and Elizabeth Pond who were held captive with him.*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations

Terkel comments and reads from Mississippi notebook II

Studs Terkel montage

Pierre Burton, Canadian writer and journalist, discusses his book “The Impossible Railway,” touching on topics including the significance of the Canadian Pacific Railway, poor labor conditions on the railway, and differences between America and Canada. Content Warning: This conversation includes racially and/or culturally derogatory language and/or negative depictions of Black and Indigenous people of color, women, and LGBTQI+ individuals.

Peter Lyon discusses the book "Success Story: The Life and Times of S. S. McClure." Includes recitation of "Immortality" by William Jennings Bryan.

Discussing the book "Angry middle-aged man" with Pat Watters.