Podcast Title: SNAFU with Ed Helms
Episode: Introducing: American History Hotline
Release Date: July 16, 2025
Host: Ed Helms
Guest: Bob Crawford

Introduction

In the episode titled "Introducing: American History Hotline," host Ed Helms welcomes listeners to another installment of Season 3, which delves into "Formula 6 - how prohibition's war on alcohol went so far off the rails the government poisoned its own people." This particular episode features a special guest, Bob Crawford, bassist for the Avett Brothers and creator of popular history podcast "Founding Son John Quincy's America." Crawford introduces his new project, "American History Hotline," aimed at engaging history enthusiasts in a dynamic question-and-answer format.

Guest Introduction: Bob Crawford

Ed Helms begins by introducing Bob Crawford, highlighting his dual role as a musician and a passionate history podcaster. Helms remarks on the unique blend of Crawford's musical background and his dedication to exploring American history, setting the stage for a compelling collaboration.

Introducing American History Hotline

Bob Crawford takes the spotlight to announce his latest endeavor, "American History Hotline." He enthusiastically explains the concept, inviting listeners to actively participate by submitting their burning questions about American history. Crawford emphasizes the interactive nature of the podcast, aiming to bridge the gap between historians and the general public.

Bob Crawford (00:15): "You ask the questions. What is political technology? Did George Washington really cut down a cherry tree? Were JFK and Marilyn Monroe having an affair? And I'll find the answers."

Engaging the Audience

Crawford elaborates on how listeners can contribute to the "American History Hotline." He encourages the audience to submit their questions through various means, making the process accessible and straightforward.

Bob Crawford (00:45): "If you have a question about American history, record a video or a voice memo on your phone and email it to americanhistoryhotlinemail.com. That's American History Hotline, All1Wordmail.com. We want your questions."

Debunking Myths and Seeking Truths

One of Crawford’s key motivations for launching the hotline is to challenge and debunk commonly held myths about American history. He expresses a desire to uncover the real stories behind the narratives that have been perpetuated over time.

Bob Crawford (00:30): "I'm so glad you asked me this question. This is such a ridiculous story that we tell ourselves because we don't want to know the real story."

Launch Details and Availability

Crawford provides the audience with the official launch date and platforms where they can access the "American History Hotline." He notes the strategic timing of the release, aligning it with Independence Day to capitalize on the historical significance of the holiday.

Bob Crawford (01:00): "You can listen to American History Hotline starting July 2, just in time for Independence Day. It's almost like we planned it like that."

He also mentions the availability of the podcast across major platforms, ensuring that listeners can easily find and subscribe to the show.

Bob Crawford (01:15): "Look for us on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts."

Conclusion

Ed Helms wraps up the episode by thanking Bob Crawford for his introduction to the "American History Hotline." He emphasizes the importance of listener engagement in preserving and understanding American history, encouraging the audience to participate actively.

Key Takeaways:

• Launch of American History Hotline: A new interactive podcast where listeners can ask questions about American history.

• How to Participate: Submit questions via video or voice memo to americanhistoryhotlinemail.com.

• Launch Date: July 2, 2025, aligning with Independence Day.

• Availability: Accessible on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, and other major podcast platforms.

• Objective: To debunk myths and uncover the real stories behind well-known historical narratives.

Notable Quotes:

• "You ask the questions... And I'll find the answers." – Bob Crawford [00:15]

• "This is such a ridiculous story that we tell ourselves because we don't want to know the real story." – Bob Crawford [00:30]

• "You can listen to American History Hotline starting July 2, just in time for Independence Day." – Bob Crawford [01:00]

This episode serves as both an introduction to Bob Crawford's new podcast and a testament to the collaborative spirit of "SNAFU with Ed Helms." By launching the "American History Hotline," Crawford and Helms aim to foster a more interactive and inquisitive approach to exploring America's past.