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4.8

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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).

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Check latest episodes from Beyond Mount Rushmore podcast

Beyond Mount Rushmore - The Many Loves of Thomas Jefferson

2026/02/03

In this episode of "Beyond Mount Rushmore," we examine the complex and private life of Thomas Jefferson, a figure often celebrated for his intellect and contributions as a statesman. However, we aim to uncover the emotional entanglements, relationships, and rumors that shaped his personal world, elements that are frequently overlooked in traditional narratives. Join us as we pull back the curtain on the lesser-known aspects of Jefferson's life, revealing the affairs, gossip, and secrecy that lie hidden between the lines of history. Tune in to discover a more nuanced portrait of this iconic figure, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Beyond Mount Rushmore - The Thomas Jefferson Preview

2026/01/27

In this upcoming episode of "Beyond Mount Rushmore," we take a look at the complex and private life of Thomas Jefferson, a figure often celebrated for his intellect and contributions as a statesman. However, we aim to uncover the emotional entanglements, relationships, and rumors that shaped his personal world, elements that are frequently overlooked in traditional narratives. Join us as we pull back the curtain on the lesser-known aspects of Jefferson's life, revealing the affairs, gossip, and secrecy that lie hidden between the lines of history. Tune in to discover a more nuanced portrait of this iconic figure, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Beyond Mount Rushmore - Robert Todd Lincoln and the Weight of History

2026/01/20

In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we're discussing the intriguing life of a man born into power who spent his days trying to escape the heavy burden it brought. We explore the idea that some stories remain hidden in the shadows of history, often overshadowed by more prominent narratives. Our discussion centers on the interplay of coincidence, fear, and history's profound impact on individual lives. Join Stan Nawalaniec and Jeff Hickcox as we uncover the overlooked tales that deserve to be remembered. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

Beyond Mount Rushmore - Robert Todd Lincoln Preview

2026/01/13

In the upcoming episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we're discussing the intriguing life of a man born into power who spent his days trying to escape the heavy burden that came with it. We explore the idea that some stories remain hidden in the shadows of history, often overshadowed by more prominent narratives. Our discussion centers on the interplay of coincidence, fear, and history's profound impact on individual lives. Join us, Stan Nawalaniec and Jeff Hickcox, as we uncover the overlooked tales that deserve to be remembered. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

Beyond Mount Rushmore - The Next Chapter

2026/01/06

In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into the intriguing second lives of former U.S. presidents, exploring the unexpected paths they take after leaving office. While many presidents fade into history, some embark on journeys that are stranger than fiction. We highlight stories of a leader who follows an unanticipated route, another who resurfaces in the political arena unexpectedly, and a president who discovers a transformative calling that impacts the world beyond politics. These narratives are often overlooked in traditional history lessons, revealing the complexity and surprising nature of our former leaders. Join us as we uncover these fascinating second acts that history tends to forget. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

Beyond Mount Rushmore - The Next Chapter Preview

2025/12/30

In this upcoming episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into the intriguing second lives of former U.S. presidents, exploring the unexpected paths they take after leaving office. While many presidents fade into history, some embark on journeys that are stranger than fiction. We highlight stories of a leader who follows an unanticipated route, another who resurfaces in the political arena unexpectedly, and a president who discovers a transformative calling that impacts the world beyond politics. These narratives are often overlooked in traditional history lessons, revealing the complexity and surprising nature of our former leaders. Join us as we uncover these fascinating second acts that history tends to forget. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

Beyond Mount Rushmore - America Loves a General

2025/12/23

In this episode of "Beyond Mount Rushmore," we explore the unique moments in American history when the nation has turned to leaders outside the political sphere, specifically, military generals, during times of crisis. We discuss how figures like Washington, Jackson, Grant, and Eisenhower rose to the presidency not out of a desire for power, but out of a necessity for strong, unifying leadership when the country faced fear, division, or uncertainty. Join us as we delve into the stories of these warriors who became presidents, highlighting their impact and the circumstances that called for their steady hands. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

Beyond Mount Rushmore - America Loves a General Preview

2025/12/16

In this upcoming episode of "Beyond Mount Rushmore," we explore the unique moments in American history when the nation has turned to leaders outside the political sphere, specifically, military generals, during times of crisis. We discuss how figures like Washington, Jackson, Grant, and Eisenhower rose to the presidency not out of a desire for power, but out of a necessity for strong, unifying leadership when the country faced fear, division, or uncertainty. Join us as we delve into the stories of these warriors who became presidents, highlighting their impact and the circumstances that called for their steady hands. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

Beyond Mount Rushmore - Blood Stains on The Capital Steps

2025/12/09

This week Stan and Jeff talk about the forgotten tradegy on the Captial steps.

Beyond Mount Rushmore - Blood Stains Preview

2025/12/02

In this upcoming episode, we delve into a lesser-known yet impactful moment that took place inside the U.S. Capitol. We explore the story of a political figure who, despite never reaching the presidency, left an indelible mark on Washington, D.C. This narrative unfolds on a quiet staircase, where the intersection of politics and darker forces reveals the complexities of power and influence. As we uncover the echoes of that day, we reflect on how its ramifications linger long after the headlines have faded. Join us as we go beyond the iconic figures of Mount Rushmore to highlight those who, though overlooked, have become unforgettable in the tapestry of American history. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

Beyond Mount Rushmore - James Buchanan a Secret Life and a Shattered Union

2025/11/25

On this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into the complex legacy of a president whose personal tragedies profoundly influenced his leadership. We explore how a mysterious death cast a long shadow over his decisions and shaped his presidency in ways that history often overlooks. As the nation faced turmoil, this highly qualified leader grappled not only with external challenges but also with internal struggles and whispers of a secret companionship that lingered behind closed doors. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

Beyond Mount Rushmore - James Buchanan Preview

2025/11/17

In this upcoming episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into the complex legacy of a president whose personal tragedies profoundly influenced his leadership. We explore how a mysterious death cast a long shadow over his decisions and shaped his presidency in ways that history often overlooks. As the nation faced turmoil, this highly qualified leader grappled not only with external challenges but also with internal struggles and whispers of a secret companionship that lingered behind closed doors. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

Beyond Mount Rushmore - John Connally The Forgotten Man in Dallas

2025/11/11

In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into the aftermath of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas, focusing on Texas Governor John Connally, who was also in the limousine that day. While Connally survived the attack, he was left with physical and emotional scars, raising important questions about the events that unfolded. We explore the controversial debate over whether the same bullet struck both Kennedy and Connally, and examine how Connally's experiences and post-Dallas career may have significantly influenced the trajectory of American politics. Join us as we uncover the overlooked stories that deserve to be remembered.

Beyond Mount Rushmore - John Connally Preview

2025/11/04

In this upcoming episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into the aftermath of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas, focusing on Texas Governor John Connally, who was also in the limousine that day. While Connally survived the attack, he was left with physical and emotional scars, raising important questions about the events that unfolded. We explore the controversial debate over whether the same bullet struck both Kennedy and Connally, and examine how Connally's experiences and post-Dallas career may have significantly influenced the trajectory of American politics. Join us as we uncover the overlooked stories that deserve to be remembered.

Beyond Mount Rushmore - Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Secrets in the White House

2025/10/27

In this episode of "Beyond Mount Rushmore," we delve into the complex and often controversial private lives of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. As hosts, Stan Nawalaniec and Jeff Hickcox explore how their tumultuous marriage and personal affairs not only shaped their relationship but also had a significant impact on the American presidency. From secrets to unexpected housemates, we uncover the layers of their lives that often go overlooked. Join us as we reveal the intricacies of a partnership that redefined leadership in America. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

Podcast reviews

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4.8 out of 5

56 reviews

★★★★★

Beluch0727 2025/09/05

Fun and interesting listen

Long time fan of Stan from his radio days. Glad to have him back to keep my company on the rides to work. Jeff is a great co-host and compliments Stan...

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