The Way of Improvement Leads Home: American History, Religion, Politics, and Academic life.

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A biweekly discussion dedicated to American History, historical thinking, and the role of history in our every day lives. Hosted by historian John Fea

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Recent Reviews
  • gggyoung
    Perfect for my commute.
    I first heard Jon on an episode of PA books. Where he referenced this podcast, and I’m so glad I checked it out and subscribed. On my commute it is great time too as a joke get smarter. This definitely fits the bill. Through Jon’s podcast. I also found some new favorite voices in American contemporary history.
  • Bill Garrett
    Excellent Interviews and Insights
    John Fea's podcasts are enjoyable to listen to and very informative. The interviews are always well prepared and gives some much needed attention to Christian political discourse on the American "left".
  • NM CK
    Wonderful
    I have enjoyed every episode. I suppose I am new to the podcast and it looks like the podcast has ended - strike that last sentence, Dr Fea still releases new episodes - not as often as I’d like, but he seems to be a very busy man. The new platform is called Current and I have enjoyed the site (looks like the podcasts there are only for subscribers $), but, once I finish all of the back episodes here - well, I will have to go back and listen to them again. Well worth the time.
  • Ralph McRalph
    All
    I came to the podcast through several of Dr. Fea’s books and then Twitter. I absolutely love the historical context the podcast provides for contemporary events and the blending of history, religion, and politics. Doing so provides at least a glimpse into understanding why people behave the way they do.
  • zacharyfcote
    Continually enriching our minds
    I have never missed an episode of The Way of Improvement Leads Home. John Fea has the unique gift of bringing on guests about things I’m passionate about, know nothing about, and had previously dismissed. And yet, every episode captivates my attention. As the great historian he is, Fea asks great questions and is well informed going into any interview. I’m grateful for his curation as I am able to enrich my own mind. If you are interested in the intersection of faith, history, and politics (and the occasional sports or Bruce Springsteen episode), this podcast is for you. His opening (and at times closing) monologues are some of the best analysis I hear in general. It’s truly a great podcast.
  • ReportThis505
    John Fea All Day
    Prof. John Fea of Messiah College is a unique thinker and historical scholar who goes into the weeds concerning different topics like politics and religion. Speaking with his brash Jersey accent, Fea interviews intriguing guests and presents interesting historical points. I encourage everyone to listen to this podcast because the way of improvement does indeed lead home!
  • bradapeters
    Wonderfully informative!
    as a high school AP US History teacher, Fea's podcast is very informative and interesting! I love the breadth of the topics, and this compelling conversations with the historians he invites on.
  • drums4life24
    Like listening to a car commercial shout info at me
    Too brash to absorb info from
  • Joe From GR
    Turn it up!
    TWofILH has quickly turned into my go-to podcasts when I jump in the car or go to the gym. John Fea has a way of leading this podcast like a great quarterback in the 4th quarter. His knowledge and insight is outstanding. He really gives off the vibe of a real “Guy’s Guy”. Someone you can go to that can entertain through teaching All in all the best way to describe John Fea on TWofILH is by quoting the great Rakim, “I’m internationally known when I be on the mic”
  • Merry_Ho
    For such a time as this
    John Fea is truly an insightful person, which is extremely valuable, especially in our current political and religious climate. Don’t miss out on this.
  • MoreIdeasFaster
    super smart
    If you're interested in the intersection of history, religion, and politics (and who ISN'T, especially these days?), you couldn't ask for a smarter, more thoughtful podcast. John Fea is a superstar.
  • B. T. Newberg
    American History and other stuff
    This show is well done, and has brought along a loyal following from the blog and book (the podcast is a new extension of those endeavors). It's about American history, and everything else that interests the author.
  • ryan54ol
    Stellar and thoughtful podcast
    John Fea and Drew host an stellar discussion of history and historiography. The caliber of their interviewees is impressive.
  • Savage Teacher
    Great insight
    If you're looking to learn, gain perspective and insight, this is the podcast for you! I so appreciate the wisdom of John Fea and his contributors.
  • Remotely cool?
    Thoughtful and open
    Great inquiry into the big ideas of society, politics, religion, and ethics of our latest technologies.
  • Michael Dobler
    An Edifying Initiation to the Enduring Value of the Discipline of Studying History
    Faithful, necessary work. Thank you.
  • Chadwick Pearsall
    If you like history...
    This podcast is awesome! I ran across John Fea a while back on Twitter, but just recently discovered the podcast. I'm catching up on all the episodes, but the first 2 episodes are very good. Give the podcast a try and follow John Fea on Twitter.
  • lcdiller
    Fantastic--assign to students
    I so much appreciate the mix of broad overview of theory and big picture stuff Fea gives before the actual interview. The casual nature of the interaction between Fea and Hermeling and their undergraduate technical assistant especially makes this accessible. My husband who isn't a historian loved the podcast on sports we listened to while preparing Thanksgiving dinner. Thanks for connecting the past to the present and I especially appreciate how frequently women scholars are featured--this is vital when so few podcasts feature women hosts.
  • Wayne Kantz
    Thankful for this Podcast
    As a teacher it can be difficult to juggle the demands of lesson planning, assessing, and managing your classroom and still find time for expanding your own depth of knowledge. This podcast helps to solve that problem. With a keen focus on the teaching of history and engaging guests, The Way of Improvement Leads Home helps me to stay connected to the scholarly world of historical study in an accessible and engaging manner. Add it to your playlist and reap the benefits!
  • Chase Steely
    So you love history?
    This is a great history podcast. I'm a new listener, but I recommend it enough. Solid stuff.
  • History Professor from Texas
    Excellent
    I have listened to every episode from the beginning and this is one of the best history podcast's around. It is balanced, provides good scholarship, and thought provoking interviews. I have used many different components in my own history classes.
  • Fred Jordan12
    The Way of Improvement Podcast
    Just listened to the first four while on spring break. Whether you make a living in the profession of history or are someone who simply like history, this is for you. Terrific reflections on the practice of history and the events and outlooks of the past.
  • Running In My Head
    Insightful, Helpful, & Real
    John Fea sucessfully combines academia with what it means to study and teach history with real, living breathing human beings. No small feat considering the number of so-called "history" podcasts out there.
  • cm1165
    A must for any history lover or thoughtful person
    I, like most people, subscribe to too many podcasts. However, there are a few that I make sure to listen to every time they post. In less than 5 episodes, The Way of Improvement Leads Home has become one of them. If you are interested in history or just in thinking deeply about the world around you, I would highly, highly recommend this podcast. Do yourself a favor and give it a listen.
  • Gowags
    John is THE man.
    I learned the value of thinking historically through reading Fea's blog and listening to him speak. I had no idea what I was missing. The podcast inentionally takes on some fairly controversial isuess. I mean, this IS religion and politics! But the hosts are up front with what's in their "wheelhouse" and are careful about the claims they make. Check this out as a refreshing and intellectually honest alternative to the typical left- and right wing media.
  • mscbklvrbts66
    The Power of Historical Thinking
    John Fea consistently pushes listeners to think critically using the discipline of history. Using timely applications (culture wars, political campaigns), he illustrates the power historical thinking has to gain insight into the world around us. Everything has a history. TWOILH podcast is worth your time because it will encourage you to think clearly.
  • Lucullus33
    Thoughtful, insightful, helpful, and civil history podcast
    Some podcasts are intellectual, but boring; some are fun, but shallow. Some are hosted by bellicose personalities. Some are hosted by posers. It may take a lot of history podcast browsing before you land on one that is engaging for both an academic and non-academic audience, while at the same time is hosted by people you would like to invite to your house for dinner. Fea and Hermeling make a great team. They are both historians, and while they differ on some issues, they obviously are good friends and have a superb rapport. The guests so far have been top shelf, and the hosts engage them professionally and intelligently. This history podcast is one to which you should immediately subscribe, and never miss an episode. While you’re at it, buy all of Fea’s books and read them with relish. You’ll be challenged, intrigued, and perhaps even frustrated from time to time—but you will know you’ve been in the presence of a thorough Christian thinker who not only knows how to think historically himself, but is a master at teaching others how to do the same.
  • Reading email posts
    Try these
    Also check out John Fea's email posts ... Excellent ones that make me think.
  • Paul Putz
    Excellent History Podcast
    Engaging exploration of the historian's craft, American history, religion, politics, and more. Hosted by John Fea, a professor of history, prolific author, and blogger. Can't wait to hear more!
  • John Fea's biggest fan
    THIS PODCAST RULES
    I'm a huge fan of John Fea and all his work. The Way of Improvement Leads Home was my favorite book of his, so you can imagine my utter thrill and excitement over this new podcast. It's interesting for all, not just history lovers like me! IT'S A MUST for working out, hanging out, and sharing with friends. John Fea is an incredible host and he is so intelligent/interesting. Check. This. Podcast. Out! You won't regret it!
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