How We Got Here

Season 1 Trailer

How We Got Here, presented by 12 On Your Side, is a podcast highlighting Virginia's rich history, one week at a time. 

Episode 1: June 3-9

In this episode of How We Got Here, we introduce you to the Paul Revere of the South, one of Ulysses S. Grant's biggest failures on the battlefield and why we learned more about death than liberty from Patrick Henry. We also catch up with a little boy who survived a lightning strike, and we examine why the 75th anniversary of D-Day means more to one Virginia community than most.

Episode 2: June 10-16

In this episode of How We Got Here, we explain how the Civil War's Siege of Petersburg could have lasted two days instead of nine months and why Virginia played such a big role in shaping the Declaration of Independence. We also share a “loving” story that changed marriage laws across the country, plus the horrifying moments as lawmakers, practicing America’s pastime, take cover when a gunman opens fire on a baseball field.

Episode 3: June 17-23

In this episode of How We Got Here: The devastating path of Hurricane Agnes that paralyzed Richmond, and Virginia’s ties to the bungling burglars of Watergate. Find out how Captain John Smith got “Disney’ed,” and how country music was born out of the mountain music of southwest Virginia – with a chaser of Johnny Cash.  

Episode 4: June 24-30

In this episode of How We Got Here: The derecho that devastated Central Virginia, and Aaron Burr’s ties to Richmond that saved his life. A tap dancing legend breaks racial barriers, and how the Seven Days’ Battles changed the landscape of the Civil War. Plus, Elvis’ escapades in Virginia, and his last show in the river city.