“What happens when we try to take the context out of history? You’re left with mythology.”

I’m on my second listen of Reconstruction: The Unfinished Promise, Malcolm Gladwell’s new podcast, and i deeply appreciate catching new gems that I missed the first time around.

I’ll admit: fourteen-year-old Ashley had some hunches. Our class would crack open the AP US History book and occasionally I’d think, some of this doesn’t add up. Something is definitely missing. Back then I was too much of a rule follower and an A student to blow up the spot, but I had a mound of legitimate questions and comparatively few answers. Decades later, for America’s 250th birthday, I was gifted the class we all should have had. One that brings the scholars, elders and many receipts to help any listener understand the distinction between mythology and truth.

Fortunately for me, in this season of life, this class was conveniently delivered directly to my phone. Right. On. Time.

Whether you’re trying to make more sense of what’s happening right now or you already know history repeats itself but also holds lessons and strategies to do better — this is mission critical listening.

Add it to your list. I’ll be sharing some of my sparks chapter by chapter over the coming weeks. Hop in, let’s ride.