Carolina In My Mind

In this episode, Mike has moved on to North Carolina. You'll hear the story behind one of North Carolina's favorite songs: Carolina In My Mind by James Taylor. Mike recounts some of the early history of the state, taking us back to the very first British settlement at Roanoke and the story of how it became The Lost Colony. You'll hear about the origin of Pepsi Cola, one of North Carolina's most well known products, the first flight by the Wright Brothers from the Kill Devil Hills, and how Babe Ruth got his first professional home run in Fayetteville. This episode features music from the Last Minute Bluegrass Band recorded live at Priddy's General Store in Danbury. 

Deep in the Heart of Coal Country

Mike takes us deep into the heart of coal country in this episode, with stories from the central and western parts of West Virginia. This episode features the origins of the NBA logo, the feud between the Hatfields and the McCoys, the inspiration for Mother's Day in the U.S., the Mine Wars which led to the Matewan Massacre and the Battle of Blair Mountain, and the story of Mothman. Look back in time to some of the more difficult chapters in U.S. history. This episode features the music of Rachel Burge and Blue Dawning. 

Almost Heaven, West Virginia

Host Mike Harding hits the road, his first stop: West Virginia. In this episode, Mike takes us deep into the history and culture of the Mountain State. The episode features the origins of John Denver's song Take Me Home, Country Roads, West Virginia's origins as a state during the Civil War, infamous rebel spy Belle Boyd, notorious coal country hotel The Dun Glen and the bunker which would house congress in the event of a nuclear war from 1962-1992. Enjoy the journey through the mountains. This episode features music from The Country Store Opry.

At Home in Our Nation's Capital

In this episode, host Mike Harding takes us on an historical romp through his hometown of Washington D.C. With stories about the city's founding, the boundary stones that mark its border, the origins of the 7th inning stretch, how the Gin Rickey became D.C's official cocktail and of a local businessman who started a global brand, you are sure to walk away wanting more. As entertaining as it is educational. Kick back and enjoy. 

Four American Travel Stories

Welcome to the first episode of American Anthology. In this episode, I present four stories from my travels to help you get to know me a little better. I hope you enjoy it!