Episodes

  • From Erasure to Revelation - Canada's Journey to Truth
    Feb 15 2025

    February marks the month of Black History in the US and Canadian Heritage and this poignant episode of the ‘Stories to be tolled’ blog series delves into the unsettling revelations from Canada, where from 2004, we remember the remains of children that were discovered at former residential schools. These institutions, part of a broader system aimed at erasing Indigenous identities, serve as a grim reminder of the colonial past's injustices.

    Tracy reflects on the dual role of education, both as a force for good and as a tool for hidden agendas, drawing parallels between historical atrocities and the present-day quest for justice and reconciliation. This episode invites listeners to consider the ongoing impact of colonialism and the potential paths toward reconciliation.

    Join Tracy as she examines the historical significance of these events and their implications for Canada today. What can be learned from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's findings? How can we, as individuals, contribute to a more informed understanding of colonialism's legacy?

    If you enjoy these podcasts then visit us for more information as well as the Website Bookshop.

    You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways

    Listeners can also get 45% off your purchase of the Magic Mind Bundle, yes that’s the mental performance and sleep shots bundle when you click the link.

    https://www.magicmind.com/tracyjan

    Offer available for a limited time.

    You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipe link or email Tracy info@storiestobetolled.com

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    11 mins
  • 'Land of the Free ?' - The Complex Legacy of the Louisiana Purchase
    Feb 1 2025

    In this thought-provoking episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' blog series, Tracy marks the beginning of a new era in geopolitics with reference to the complex history of the United States, tracing its roots back to a pivotal moment in 1803—the Louisiana Purchase. Tracy DW reflects on this monumental land acquisition not only expanded the 13 original colonies into a vast nation but also set the stage for deeply entrenched societal and political ideologies that resonate to this day.

    Listeners are encouraged to unravel the intricate web of colonialism, slavery, and the relentless pursuit of the American Dream while drawing parallels to Britain's colonial past. This episode challenge you to reconsider the established narratives and explore the untold stories of those who lived through these transformative times.

    If you enjoy these podcasts then visit us for more information as well as the Website Bookshop.

    You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways

    Listeners can also get 45% off your purchase of the Magic Mind Bundle, yes that’s the mental performance and sleep shots bundle when you click the link.

    https://www.magicmind.com/tracyjan

    Offer available for a limited time.

    You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipe link or email Tracy info@storiestobetolled.com

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    8 mins
  • The Hero Paradox - Unsung but never forgotten
    Jan 18 2025

    In this episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' blog series, as the 47th US Presidential inauguration approaches Tracy DW reflects on the life of Crispus Attucks, a man shrouded in mystery yet immortalised as a symbol of the anti-slavery movement and the complex roles Africans played in the American Revolution, navigating the paradoxical heroism and war crimes they faced.

    By questioning how Africans, who fought bravely, were denied the status of heroes in a society that refused to acknowledge their equality, Tracy brings the discussion about the ‘hero complex’ into a modern day context. Here, she highlights the challenges and resistance faced by the descendants of these heroes and heroines to establish a monument to commemorate their ancestors’ contributions to the shaping of modern America.

    If you enjoy these podcasts then visit us for more information as well as the Website Bookshop.

    You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways

    You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipe link or email Tracy info@storiestobetolled.com

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    8 mins
  • The Wind of Change - 'Echoes of a New Era'
    Jan 4 2025

    In this compelling episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' blog series, Tracy DW kicks off the new year continuing season 5, reflecting on the anniversary and historical significance of British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan's 'Wind of Change' speech.

    Tracy draws parallels between the transformative winds of 1960, the COVID-19 pandemic and the present-day upheavals brought about by the consequences of post pandemic events. Tracy also highlights another modern 'wind of change' that will question and challenge long-held ideologies and societal norms on a global scale: that of the election of the US President Donald J Trump.

    As we navigate this new era, Tracy reflects on the metaphorical winds that challenge us to redefine our priorities and confront the inequalities and injustices laid bare by recent events. Echoing the past, she invites listeners to consider their stance in the ongoing struggle for morality and the direction of our collective future.

    If you enjoy these podcasts then visit us for more information as well the Website Bookshop

    You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways

    You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipelink or email Tracy at info@storiestobetolled.com

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    6 mins
  • 'The Brave Pen' - Writing Against the Grain
    Dec 21 2024

    In this the sixth episode of the ‘Stories to be tolled’ blog post series you can listen in on School Leader, author and podcaster Tracy DW on her journey from writing about the British Empire to creating an expansive learning platform aimed at harnessing the power of multimedia to breathe life into her stories, provide meaningful contexts and foster understanding of complex historical narratives.

    Tracy also talks about another journey: that of creativity and self-expression in stepping out of your comfort zone. Whether you're an author, educator, or simply someone with a story to tell. Tracy reflects over her writing journey, shares some advice for aspiring authors and celebrates the power of following one's passion and the impact it can have on both personal and professional growth.

    If you enjoy these podcasts then visit us for more information as well the Website Bookshop

    You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways

    You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipelink or email Tracy at info@storiestobetolled.com

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    7 mins
  • 'Our History, Our Voice' - A Perspective on Britain’s Colonial Past
    Dec 7 2024

    In a world where the small things are often overlooked, it's crucial to explore and celebrate the diverse narratives that have shaped our past as well as our present.

    In this episode of the ‘Stories to be tolled blog’ Tracy emphasises the importance of diversity in education, highlighting how incorporating stories about colonial history into the curriculum gives people of colour not only a voice to express their own history but can foster in pupils a greater understanding of global interconnections and encourage taking their own journey towards owning their cultural heritage and identity.

    If you enjoy these podcasts then visit us for more information as well the Website Bookshop

    You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways

    You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipelink or email Tracy at info@storiestobetolled.com

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    6 mins
  • From 'their' history to 'our' history - a Journey of Ownership
    Nov 23 2024

    "History teaches us about human nature, how the politics and culture intertwined to make us who we are and to show how we evolve as social beings over time." (Tracy DW)

    "What I want people to do is to make that journey from saying it's our history to actually saying it's my history." (Tracy DW)

    This thought provoking episode of the blog challenges the traditional, polarised view of history, particularly black history, and calls for a more holistic understanding. With current discussions on reparations and the investigation into the royal family's wealth amassed through colonialism, Tracy highlights the importance of recognising the intertwined roles of different races on the lasting impact of colonialism.

    Tracy emphasises that, while many may not have directly participated in historical injustices, they continue to benefit from the legacy. This realisation is crucial for fostering a sense of shared history and encourages listeners to transition from seeing history as 'their history' to 'our history' and ultimately to 'my history.' Fostering a collective ownership that moves towards reconciliation and progress that are essential for societal breakthroughs.

    Join us on this journey of reflection and understanding, as we uncover the past's profound influence on our present and future.

    ‘History is...a matter of fact or perspective?’ School Leader and author of the 'Stories to be tolled' poetic narratives, Tracy DW attempts to explore this question through her podcast series about the British Empire and Britain’s colonial past. By inviting you to share her learning journey, Tracy advocates a more global approach to understanding history. Presenting learning about the topic in a way that is thought provoking, imaginative and engaging.

    If you enjoy these podcasts then visit us for more information as well the Website Bookshop

    You can also opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways

    You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipelink or email Tracy at info@storiestobetolled.com

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    5 mins
  • 'History's Tapestry' - Weaving the Past with the Present
    Nov 9 2024

    "The podcast has helped me learn that yet again, there's so much about our present circumstances in the world that has a link to colonialism and to decisions that now influence a lot of foreign policies that countries have with each other around the world." (Tracy DW)

    This next instalment of the blog series delves into the origins of Tracy’s podcast, 'Stories to be tolled – the podcast series,' which began as a way to share extensive research that didn't make it into her books. Initially planned as a limited series, the podcast has expanded to cover a wide range of topics and diverse themes. Some of which have influenced her approach and helped the podcast to evolve.

    The aim of the podcast is to invite listeners to explore the connections between past and present and to understand the enduring impact of colonialism on today's world. Join Tracy on her learning journey, as she models historical inquiry and discover how history shapes our current circumstances.

    ‘History is...a matter of fact or perspective?’ School Leader and author of the 'Stories to be tolled' poetic narratives, Tracy DW attempts to explore this question through her podcast series about the British Empire and Britain’s colonial past. By inviting you to share her learning journey, Tracy advocates a more global approach to understanding history. Presenting learning about the topic in a way that is thought provoking, imaginative and engaging.

    If you enjoy these podcasts then visit us for more information as well the Website Bookshop

    You can opt in to our mailing list to receive free samples of each of our first four story titles and enter the draw for a chance to win one of our monthly promotional giveaways

    You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipelink or email Tracy at info@storiestobetolled.com

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    5 mins