An American Journey

e65 - Presidential pardons and Beach Yoga

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 23:00:00 -0500

In episode 65, we are topical for a change and discuss all types of Presidential Pardons. Michael demonstrates deep misunderstanding from his two minutes of perusing Wikipedia.

We also talk about the popularity of beach yoga in America.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Yet

e64 - Renovating a Home

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0500

In episode 63, we talk about the differences between renovating a house in the US from the UK.

Michael starts very well in a quiz...but soon tapers off

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Yet

e63 - Caribbean Cruising

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 22:00:00 -0500

In episode 63, we talk about Caribbean cruising.

While not (yet) part of America - those lucky islands will have to wait until the annexation of Canada and Greenland - a Caribbean cruise is a fairly American cultural experience.

Michael asks the questions and learns how Julian ended up in a hot tub with a party of swingers.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Yet

e59 - US Education (part 3 of three-part series)

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 21:00:00 -0500

In Episode 59, Julian talks to his two daughters about the US education system

This will be the third part of a three-part series where we explore how education in the US works, and - in particular - how it contrasts with that in the UK.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Yet

e62 - An analysis of the US Presidential Election

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 22:00:00 -0500

Against Julian's better judgment, Michael wanted to do a podcast on the US election.

Therefore, we look at the implications of the recent US elections for Democrats, Republicans, America, and Europe in as unbiased a manner as we could muster.

If you are inclined to get angry at one side or the other, we respectfully suggest you skip this episode. If, however, you are interested in a more neutral view, this might interest you.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Yet

e61 - Alaskan Railways and Presidential Debates

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0400

In Episode 61, Julian and Michael talk about Alaskan Railways. Julian thinks they are pricey and slow, but they do afford a good view at times.

In the lead-up to the US General Election, Julian and Michael discuss the thorny history of Presidential Debates. Of course, we do get sidetracked into the current campaign.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Yet

e60 - DC's Smithsonian Museums and Storage Units

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0400

In episode 60, Julian and Michael talk about

1. the Smithsonian Museums in Washington DC.

2. Julian also tries to convince Michael of the joys of leasing a storage unit (or at least why so many Americans have one).

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Yet

e58 - US Education (part 2 of three-part series)

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 13:00:00 -0400

In Episode 58, Julian talks to his two daughters about the US education system

This will be the second part of a three-part series where we explore how education in the US works, and - in particular - how it contrasts with that in the UK.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Yet

e57 - US Education (part one of a three part series)

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0400

In Episode 57, Julian talks to his two daughters about the US education system

This will be the first part of a three-part series where we explore how education in the US works, and - in particular - how it contrasts with that in the UK.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Yet

e56 - Sedona, and Buying and Selling a House

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In Episode 56, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Sedona. Julian loves the red rock hikes, while Michael likes to explore his spiritual side.

2. Buying and Selling a House. After three years of traveling and renting, Julian finally buys a house. We talk about the process of buying and selling a house in America and compare it with that of the UK. Michael attempts to pronounce Realtor.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Yet

e55 - Deep South Music Roadtrip

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In Episode 55, Julian interviews Ian Barnes about a Deep South music road trip. In this journey, he and his family travel to the major music destinations of the Deep South, while learning about the South's history

1. Memphis. The home of blues music

2.

3. Natchez. An elegant but fading town on the Mississippi

4. New Orleans. The home of jazz music and drunkenness

5. Montgomery. Civil Rights history

6. Atlanta. The home of hip-hop

7. Pigeon Forge. Dollywood

8. Nashville - the highlight of the trip. Country music's home

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Ye

e53 - Julian Bishop's Are We There Yet

Sun, 10 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0500

In Episode 53, Michael interviews Julian about his new book "Are We There Yet?"

In a wide-ranging interview, they talk about historical and current immigration; the Amish; and the role travel books have in opening oneself up to new experiences.

Michael enjoyed Julian's new book greatly, devouring it in 48 hours. He described it as a "right riveting read."

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Yet?

e52 - Tucson and Lewis & Clark

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 16:00:00 -0500

In Episode 52, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Tucson. Michael may not be able to pronounce it and hasn't been there, but Julian tells him that he should visit it on one of his next trips.

2. Lewis & Clark. We talk about two of America's great explorers.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Ye

e51 - American Rock Anthems & Orlando

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0500

In Episode 51, Michael and Julian talk about

1. American Rock Anthems. We talk about what makes an American Rock Anthem and talk about Born in the USA, More Than a Feeling, Living on a Prayer, Smells Like Teen Spirit, Don't Stop Believin', Sweet Home Alabama, Hotel California, and (the Canadian) Summer of 69

2. Orlando. Michael has recently come back from a big family holiday in Orlando. He talks about his time at Disney and Universal

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Yet?

E50 - St Louis and the American Beard

Sat, 04 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0400

In Episode 50, Michael and Julian talk about

1. St Louis. Julian has never visited the gateway to the West, but fortunately, Michael has.

2. The American Beard. Two clean-shaven guys talk about why American men are more likely to be bearded than their British counterparts. Lots of data, including that the majority of American women like a beard on a man.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Yet?

E49 - New York update with Michael Moran and Simon Gosney

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 18:00:00 -0400

In Episode 49, Michael talks to Simon Gosney about New York City. We also reprise an earlier episode about the Big Apple.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

e48 - The Assassination of JFK and Monument Valley

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 12:00:00 -0400

In Episode 48, Michael and Julian talk about

1. The Assassination of JFK. Julian is typically pragmatic, while Michael thinks it unlikely that Oswald could have hit the moving target twice from that distance. We talk conspiracy theories.

2. Monument Valley. This is one of Julian's favorite places in the USA.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

e47 - Van Life and Skyscrapers

Wed, 10 May 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In Episode 47, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Van Life. Have you thought about living in a van and traveling across America? Millions have this lifestyle

2. Skyscrapers. Competition between New York and Chicago started a worldwide trend for very tall buildings. We discuss building regulations, elevators, and our favorite buildings

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

e46 - Memphis and an American Truck

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 20:00:00 -0500

In Episode 46, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Memphis. Music, museums, and ducks. We also talk about Marc Cohn's Walking in Memphis

2. American Trucks. Julian loves a truck and speculates why there are over 50 million on American roads

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

e45 - Resolutions, Niagara Falls, How Americans Dress for Work

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

In Episode 45, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Progress on New Year's Resolutions. Some progress but some setbacks

2. Niagara Falls. We get sidetracked onto barrels and tightrope walking
3. How Americans Dress for Work. More casually than in Europe. Again, we get sidetracked by the school uniforms of our youth

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

e44 - New Year's Resolutions, Key West, Selecting a Republican Speaker, & Melvyn again

Sun, 22 Jan 2023 19:00:00 -0500

In Episode 44, Michael and Julian talk about

1. New Year's Resolutions. Michael cuts and pastes his from the previous year...

2. Key West. Michael loved it and plans to return next year

3. Selecting a new Republican Speaker. Julian attempts valiantly to explain it to a dubious Michael

4. Melvyn. Michael thinks he has had a lot of luck. Julian suspects that his success is down to hard work and being open to opportunities.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

e43 - Interview with Melvyn Anderson

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 16:00:00 -0500

In Episode 43, Julian interviews Melvyn Anderson about his life as an East-End antique dealer. He talks about

His upbringing. Melvyn was born in Stepney in the East End of London
His time running a rough London pub.
How he became an antique dealer.
His impulsiveness, including the houses and boats he purchased because it seemed a good idea at the time.
His life and experience in the USA.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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e42 - Venice, Florida and High School Football

Sat, 17 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0500

In Episode 42, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Venice, Florida. Michael visits Julian in his hometown. They enjoy a parade, boating, and a railway museum...

2. High School Football. Michael and Julian really enjoy going to a high school football game.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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E41 - Mount Rushmore & An American Beach

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0500

In Episode 41, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Mount Rushmore & Surrounding Areas. Both Julian and Michael rate this part of America. Michael finds a train to see, while Julian is interested in the area's Native American history. Julian warns against Wall, SD.

2. An American Beach. Julian talks about how an American beach differs from one in the UK. We talk about beach yoga, a dog beach, and shell collecting, Michael laments that people don't play cricket on an American beach.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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Connect with Michael via
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E40 - New Orleans and Conspiracy Theories

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0400

In Episode 40, Michael and Julian talk about

1. New Orleans. Michael doesn't like it at all. He is mistaken.

2. Conspiracy Theories. Julian has read much of the academic literature about them. However, Michael prefers his own theories. We swap our favorite conspiracy theories. Michael surprises Julian by expressing some doubt over the moon landings.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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Connect with Michael via
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e39 - Recovering from a Hurricane and Tailgating

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0400

In Episode 39, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Recovering from a Hurricane. From Julian's perspective, it looks really well organized.

2. Tailgating. This has an entirely different meaning than in the UK. It is the most common type of party in the US.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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E38 - Americans and the Queen, Cleveland, and why do Americans have so much space in their houses

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0400

In Episode 38, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Why do Americans think that Julian has met the Queen? It is a good conversation starter

2. Cleveland. Few foreign tourists go there but it has a number of charms

3. Why do Americans have so much space in their houses? Michael predicts that his beloved would merely fill the extra space with stuff

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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Newsflash - a hurricane approaches

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 21:00:00 -0400

In Episode 37, Michael and Julian talk about the impending Hurricane hit on Julian's hometown.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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Connect with Michael via
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E36 - Hurricane Preparation, The Grand Canyon, and Robbing a Bank

Sat, 17 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0400

In Episode 36, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Preparing for a Hurricane. Julian explains why he is already blase about hurricanes but explains what you need to do in the event of a hurricane

2. The Grand Canyon. Many people who visit are disappointed. We explore some of the activities that are likely to make this trip one of the highlights of your life

3. Bank Robberies. The USA was famed for bank robberies in the Wild West period when they were frankly very rare. They are ubiquitous in today's America. We take a humorous look at today's bank robberies.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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E35 - Voting in the US, an American Fridge, & Washington DC

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0400

In Episode 35, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Voting in a US election. The complexities of voting in the world's most famous democracy. Julian is unsure of whether to vote for Michael Moran.

2. An American Fridge. Julian thinks it is the cornerstone of civilization.

3. Washington DC. Do we recommend our nation's capital?

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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E33 - An American in London

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 10:00:00 -0400

In Episode 34, Michael talks to Grant Risdon about his life in London. He talks about what he has learned and what he has left behind.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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E31 - Traveling on an Amtrak Train

Sat, 13 Aug 2022 16:00:00 -0400

In Episode 34, Michael talks to Simon Gosney about his many travels across America on an Amtrak train.

Episode 34 - Bobby Bonilla Day, Californian Coastal Road Trip, and an American Parade

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0400

In Episode 34, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Bobby Bonilla Day. An unbelievable baseball story. Michael is perplexed.

2. Californian Coastal Road Trip. We discuss America's quintessential road trip.

3. An American Parade. You won't be surprised to learn that we love a parade.

4. Outtake. Michael can't let Bobby Bonilla go.

E32 - Interview with Wendy Horgan. Revisit Cape Cod and Nashville. Voting & Becoming American

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 01:00:00 -0400

In Episode 23, Julian interviews Scot Wendy Horgan, a Boston resident. We talk about many things including:

Her upbringing in Scotland
Motherhood in America
Voting
Becoming American
Cape Cod and Nashville
The usual general questions

Other Show Notes
There is a transcript available. Otter.ai describes it as about 85-90% accurate

Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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E30 - Traditional American Summer Camps

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In Episode 30, Julian talks to his daughters about American Summer Camps.

Whether you merely have an interest in these traditional summer camps, are a parent who is thinking of sending their children to a summer camp, or a young adult contemplating working at a summer camp, this is an episode for you.

Here are some links to camps we talked about during the episode
Camp Nakanawa
Tech Camp
Arts and Design Camp Daughter #2 attended
Critical Language Scholarship Program (US residents only)

Advice on finding a summer camp jobs
Consolidator site for US counselor applications
Bunac - getting a job in the US at a summer camp as a non-US-Citizen

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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E29 - Cape Cod & Martha's Vineyard and Small-Town Museums

Mon, 23 May 2022 05:00:00 -0400

In Episode 29, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard. They are both splendid places to go in the Summer. Beaches, lighthouses, and hikes are the highlights

2. Small-Town American Museums. Both of us love small-town museums. Any American town of almost any size has one, and they are great places for understanding American culture.

3. A Grand Tour. Julian talks about his forthcoming Grand Tour across Europe. Michael talks about the podcasts he is going to record and edit in Julian's absence.

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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E28 - Amish and Rodeos

Mon, 09 May 2022 01:00:00 -0400

In Episode 28, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Amish Communities. They are amongst the most successful communities in America and have spread to over 30 US states. Julian talks about what you mind find if you visit an Amish community

2. Rodeos. We both love them and are full of admiration for these brave cowboys and cowgirls. Watch out for some truly terrible jokes too.

E27 - Knoxville TN, State Fairs & Taco Bell closers

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 01:00:00 -0400

In Episode 27, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Knoxville, Tennessee. We try to find a way of describing its main monument to keep this podcast clean. Michael is thoroughly unimpressed with Julian's facts

2. State Fairs. Julian loves them but fails to convince Michael that the food is excellent. We both would like to participate in the sunflower seed spitting contests

3. Taco Bell closers. Taco Bell is offering $18 an hour for an unskilled job. We talk about the implications for the US economy

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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Episode 26 - Phoenix, City Names, Spring Training Baseball, & California Movies

Sat, 09 Apr 2022 08:00:00 -0400

In Episode 26, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Phoenix. The saguaro-dotted vistas are magnificent, but will Michael and Julian recommend Phoenix as a destination?

2. City Names. 25 city names have a presence in more than 18 states. Why are Americans so unoriginal in the naming of their cities? Also, when you have a unique name like Buttsville do you change it to Greenville?

3. Spring Training Baseball. With the strike settled, Julian goes to a Spring Training Baseball game and contrasts it with a regular-season game.

4. California Movies. A listener is traveling down the coast of California with her family this summer. She wants to know which movies to watch to get in the mood. Julian gives his suggestions. Michael does too, but then he recommended Bad Santa

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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Episode 25 - Atlanta, Vegetarianism in the US & the ending of the baseball strike

Sat, 26 Mar 2022 20:00:00 -0400

In Episode 25, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Atlanta. Julian lived here for almost a decade, while Michael is confused about its center

2. Vegetarianism. A listener asks if she will be able to get vegan food easily before she runs the New York Marathon.

3. The ending of the baseball strike. After 99 days, it is all over. The season will start a week late but still feature 162 regular-season games. Michael asks, who won?

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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E24 - Denver, The Drive Thru, and Automatic audio software

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 12:00:00 -0500

In Episode 22, Michael and Julian talk about

1. Denver. Michael loves it and keeps returning.

2. The Drive Thru. Michael is dubious about them and thinks they have a limited future. Julian, however, believes they are quintessentially American and some data to disprove Michael's thesis.

3. Automated software for voice recording. Julian has been experimenting with software that transcribes our podcasts. There is a problem, however. The clever technology cannot understand what Michael is saying

Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Available here to buy as a paperback, ebook, or audiobook

Excerpts, reviews, and more available here

Connect with Julian via:
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E23 - Johannes Terblanche interview. Namibia, working in the US, why America is so prosperous, and education

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In Episode 23, Julian interviews Johannes Terblanche. We talk about many things including:

His upbringing in Namibia
Working in the USA
Why America is so prosperous
Education

Episode 22 - American Malls, San Diego, Another Baseball Strike, and Trouble at the Golden Corral

Sat, 12 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0500

In Episode 22, Michael and Julian talk about

1. American Malls. While it may appear that Michael is talking about American Moles, it is American shopping centers that get our attention in this episode.

2. San Diego. Julian loves it but hasn't been there for over 25 years. Michael talks lovingly about its beaches, parks, and baseball

3. Another Baseball Strike. Julian tries to explain a lockout to Michael and the 50 years of disputes between owners and players. Michael wonders whether there might be an endemic industrial relations issue.

4. Trouble at the Golden Corral. Julian describes a big fight that erupted at the Golden Corral. It does not encourage Michael to ignore the advice from Episode 18

Episode 21 - The Superbowl and Orlando Theme Parks

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In Episode 21, Michael and Julian talk about

1. The Superbowl. We look forward to Superbowl LVI. Michael struggles with the roman numerals but does explain why they are used. Julian shares how much food is eaten on Superbowl night

2. Orlando Theme Parks. We give some tips on how to best enjoy Orlando's many theme parks

3. Outtro. Lorna finally reviews Bad Santa, and we lament Derby County's tricky financial situation.

Episode 20 - Mandy Urena interview. Massage, Arkansas, and does American chocolate taste of vomit?

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 09:00:00 -0500

In Episode 20, Julian interviews Mandy Urena. We talk about many things including:

Her new book. If These Hands Could Talk: The Girl Who Touched the World
American military bases around the world
Atlantic City, Miami Beach, and Arkansas
American chocolate

Episode 19 - San Francisco and Tipping

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0500

In Episode 19, Michael and Julian talk about

San Francisco. Michael likes it but recommends that you take a sweater. Julian has a friend with a plane
Tipping. Michael has a rant, while Julian tries to explain the rules of tipping in the US

Episode 18 - Highway eateries

Sat, 25 Dec 2021 00:00:00 -0500

This episode is a Christmas present for Michael, who often complains that there is no good food near American highways.

Daughters #1 and #2 and their respective boyfriends (boyfriend #1 and #2) discuss where they like to eat and what they like to eat. They also tell you where they will never eat again.

Episode 17 - Christmas Episode. Christmas in America, Columbus Indiana, abortion, and Let's Go Brandon

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 09:00:00 -0500

In Episode 17, Michael and Julian talk about

Christmas in the USA. We contrast Christmas in the USA with that in the UK. Many fun facts and some jokes.
Columbus, Indiana. Julian recommended that Michael go to this town many years ago. Michael did not like it
Abortion. Julian tries to answer Michael's questions about some proposed state abortion laws
Let's Go Brandon. Julian explains this phenomenon to Michael

Episode 16 - Northern New England, Thanksgiving, & Answering Listeners' Questions

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0500

In Episode 16, Michael and Julian talk about

Northern New England. You can have three types of vacation there depending on whether you go in summer, fall, or winter. Michael talks about more hotel mishaps and trains
Thanksgiving(s). Julian likes to give thanks, and Michael likes the football
Education questions. Michael puts questions from listeners on education to Julian

Episode 15 - Mackinac Island, Updates on what's happening in US, Sororities and Fraternities

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 11:00:00 -0500

In Episode 15, Michael and Julian talk about

Mackinac Island. Michael hopes it might be idyllic.
Another update on previous topics. Will Biden ever get his trillion-dollar bills passed? Vaccine mandates. More information on the molasses catastrophe of 1919. Michael's romantic packages. High School football
Sororities and Fraternities. Julian and his daughters talk about these university social clubs

Episode 14 - Boston, Driving in the US, & the US college experience

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0500

In Episode 14, Michael and Julian talk about

Boston. Michael describes this charismatic city, and Julian annoys him with some things he doesn't know about it
Driving in America. It's one of the joys of life. Michael talks about why he likes it, while Julian talks about the perils of hitting a deer
The US college experience. Julian and his daughters talk about the differences between going to university in the UK and the US

Episode 13 - Our Pilot Episode on Homeschooling, Savannah, and Mass Shootings

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 18:00:00 -0500

Michael and Julian go back to the past in this episode and publish the previously unheard pilot episode.

It's rough and ready, but has some merit (if you look hard enough). In the episode, we discuss

Homeschooling. Julian explains why it's much more popular in the US than in Europe
Savannah. We both love it. We think you will love it too.
Mass Shootings. We used to have a topical news item on each episode. This topic, sadly, always seems topical in the US. Julian tries to explain why they are difficult to stop.

Episode 12 - Yosemite, Air Conditioning, and School Shootings

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Michael and Julian discuss:

Yosemite. Julian went here on his honeymoon. Michael sees another bear and retells a much-loved story
Air Conditioning. Michael doesn't understand why we are talking about it. However, it's instrumental in America's development. There are also many downsides
Part 6 of a series on Education. With help from Daughter #1 and #2, Julian talks about discipline in US schools. This leads to a discussion on school police officers and school shootings. D#1 and D#2 talk about school shooter training.

Episode 11 - Drug Advertising, Nashville, and Music and Sport at High Schools

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Michael and Julian discuss:

Drug Advertising on TV. Only two countries in the world allow drug advertising on TV. In the US, three-quarters of TV revenues come from drug adverts. Julian and Michael talk about this phenomenon.
Nashville. Julian loves the music and Michael likes the old train terminal. They talk about other stuff there too
Part 5 of a series on Education. With help from Daughter #1 and #2, Julian talks about music and sport in US high schools. D#1 waxes about game day, while D#2 talks about how good the high school bands are.
Bloopers. Just one this week. Julian can't understand what Michael is saying.

Episode 10 - Planning Michael's Next US Vacation, Why There Are No Workers In The US & UK, And Part 4 Of Series on Education (High School Cliques).

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Michael and Julian discuss:

Planning Michael's Next US Vacation. As a UK citizen, Michael is not yet allowed to travel to the US. However, he is looking forward to when the rules change. We talk about a potential trip that includes train travel (yawn), Los Angeles, Texas, New Orleans, and a road trip to Florida
Why are there no workers in the US or the UK? Both countries seem to have a dearth of workers at the current time, but for slightly different reasons. Julian and Michael explore these reasons
Part 4 of a series on Education. With help from Daughter #1 and #2, Julian talks about High School cliques. Jocks, Nerds, Stoners, outcasts, etc. Do these cliques really exist or are they mainly the construct of Hollywood?
Bloopers. Just one this week. We must be getting better at this podcast thing

Episode 9 - American TV, Yellowstone, High School Icons, and Outtakes

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 16:00:00 -0400

Michael and Julian discuss:

American TV. Michael watches it every night, while Julian avoids it
Yellowstone. It's the oldest National Park, and we talk about what we love about it.
Part 3 of a series on Education. With help from Daughter #1 and #2, Julian talks about the icons of High School education. Yellow buses, driving to school, uniforms, lockers, the cafeteria, the pledge of allegiance, proms, and graduation
Bloopers. It's another bumper week for outtakes. Michael's doorbell disturbs everyone

Episode 8 - From High School to College; Drive-In Movies; Philadelphia; and some outtakes

Sun, 22 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Michael and Julian discuss:

Part 2 of a series on Education. With help from Daughter #1 and #2, Julian compares the UK and US education systems. This week, we cover whether the US education system is too US-centric; Streaming by ability; Testing; and comparison of university admissions processes
Drive-In Movies. Michael has never been to one. He has missed out
Philadelphia. Few British people ever go there. Julian argues that they should.
Bloopers. It's another bumper week for outtakes.

Episode 7 - Baseball, Part 1 of series on education, Chicago, and record number of outtakes

Sat, 07 Aug 2021 20:00:00 -0400

Michael and Julian discuss:

Baseball. We both love baseball; we explain why. Julian tells a long story about the longest baseball game
Part 1 of a series on Education. With help from Daughter #1 and #2, Julian compares the UK and US education systems. This week, we cover the structure and history and answer a few basic definitional questions
Chicago. It's my kind of town, says Michael
Bloopers. It's a bumper week for outtakes. Michael boasts that he has done some preparation this week and has more trouble with household technology. Daughter #1 and Julian struggle to understand the relative numbering of years/grades in the UK/US education systems.

Episode 6 - A Classic American Motel, Chattanooga, and News Follow-up

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Michael and Julian discuss:

The Classic American Motel. What is the appeal of a classic American motel? Why is there a shortage of rental cars?
Chattanooga. Michael struggles to pronounce the name of the town but loves its railway museum.
News update. Julian gives an update on news items covered in the previous episodes: Masks, more trillion-dollar budgets, Meghan, has the bungled NYC election finished yet?
Blooper. Michael struggles to pronounce stuff

Episode 5 - New York City, A Bungled Election, Why Americans Are Less Reserved in An Office Environment, and Some Bloopers

Sat, 10 Jul 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Michael and Julian discuss:

New York City. Both of us keep coming back to this city. There is always something else to see
A Bungled Election. New York City officials bungle an election in a very embarrassing manner
Are Americans less reserved than the British in an office environment? Of course, but the more interesting question is why
Blooper. Michael has a new doorbell

Episode 4 - Las Vegas, Juneteenth, and Soccer in the USA

Sat, 26 Jun 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Michael and Julian discuss:

Las Vegas. Neither of us likes it very much, but we do recommend that you go there!
What is Juneteenth? Will all Americans have this as a public holiday?
Soccer in the US. Michael believes that the USA will win the World Cup within the next 20 years. Julian is not so sure but thinks that the professional game in the USA is good to watch live. Both give their prediction on who will win the Euros

Episode 3 - Los Angeles; Why can you drive at 16 but not drink until 21; Meghan and Harry

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 16:00:00 -0400

Michael and Julian discuss:

Los Angeles. Both of us like the things to do here but find the traffic aggravating.
Listener question. Why can you drive at 16, but not drink until 21? Julian points out that you can drive at 14 in some states and explains why it's a minimum of 21 everywhere to drink alcohol.
In the week where Meghan and Harry hit the news again, Julian and Michael explore why royalty is so popular in America.

Episode 2 - Miami and the Florida Keys, President Biden's $6 trillion budget, and The High School Prom

Mon, 31 May 2021 21:00:00 -0400

Michael and Julian discuss:

Miami and the Florida Keys. Both of us find Miami Beach too noisy but love the Art Deco architecture. Julian talks about why he loves Key West.
In the week where President Biden reveals his $6 trillion federal budget, Julian wonders whether it should happen and whether it will happen.
The High School Prom. Bah Humbug: Michael thinks they are another American import to the UK like Halloween. Julian thinks they are important but asks whether they have gone too far.

Episode 1 - North Dakota, Unmasked, and Train Versus Car

Sun, 23 May 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Michael and Julian discuss:

North Dakota. Even the state's own tourism bureau thinks you should leave it to last. Julian disagrees; he visits a great museum and an empty national park.
In the week where the federal government says that fully vaccinated people don't have to wear masks in most settings, Julian and Michael discuss Covid in the USA.
Trains vs. car in the USA. Julian explains how transportation developed in the USA and why the car is so dominant. Michael talks of a wonderful train journey he took from LA to San Diego.