Sharon Says So
Have you ever heard a story that has left your mind blown? The kind of story that sounds like a pure exaggeration? The kind of story that you want to turn around and tell to all your friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors? Those are the stories you can expect to hear on The Sharon Says So Podcast, every single week. Host Sharon McMahon, a longtime government and law teacher, has amassed hundreds of thousands of followers on her viral Instagram account @sharonsaysso where she combats political misinformation with non-partisan facts. Sharon is no stranger to the rumor mill and is here to expose the damning details and unheard truth behind the TRUE stories of America you may never knew existed from espionage to sled dogs to presidential scandals and much, much more. Sharon will also be joined each week by some of the nation’s most prolific thought leaders, government officials, authors and more to discuss developing matters of national importance in an effort to keep you informed on today’s rapidly changing news cycle.
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46. Michigan: Exploring the Magic of Michigan with Sharon McMahon
10/27/2021
46. Michigan: Exploring the Magic of Michigan with Sharon McMahon
In this episode, Sharon explores the rich ecosystem of the state of Michigan. Known as the “Great Lakes State” Michigan is comprised of two peninsulas that are separated by the Straits of Mackinac, called the Lower Peninsula, and the Upper Peninsula (UP). Known for its fresh water and natural beauty, the state of Michigan is home to many of the nation’s most beautiful parks, animals, coastlines, and lakes. Join Sharon to learn more about how Moose and Wolves cohabitate in Northern Michigan, why the UP belongs to Michigan despite sharing no border, how many ships have sunk in Lake Superior, and more. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20853725
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45. Building Connection Through Creativity with Morgan Harper Nichols
10/25/2021
45. Building Connection Through Creativity with Morgan Harper Nichols
In this episode, Sharon sits down with Morgan Harper Nichols, the ultimate creator. Known for her art, words, and music, Sharon describes Morgan as a must-follow on Instagram for inspiration. Morgan grew up in a very creative family and started creating when she was young and loved sharing her work with others. Growing up in the internet age, Morgan was in front of social media from the beginning and discusses the importance of sharing positivity, factually correct information, and taking a moment to breathe and take a break when needed. In the episode, the two cover the importance of finding your true self and finding a connection with others in a way that works for you. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20853992
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44. Massachusetts: 1,100 Strongly-Worded Letters with Kaben Kramer
10/22/2021
44. Massachusetts: 1,100 Strongly-Worded Letters with Kaben Kramer
In this episode, Sharon tells Kaben Kramer about the best letter-writer of all time, Abigail Adams. Born and raised in the great state of Massachusetts, Abigail wrote over 1,100 letters to her husband, President John Adams, throughout his political career. Her words packed a punch, and her letters frequently persuaded her husband to advocate for women’s rights and condemn slavery on the floors of our new nation’s Congress. Abigail was a trusted wife, loving mother, charitable educator, smallpox inculcator, ammunition maker, and at times, she was referred to as “Mrs. President.” Join Sharon and Kaben as they discuss the incredible life and legacy of Abigail Adams. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20853764
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43. Taking Paris & Writing Bestsellers with Martin Dugard
10/20/2021
43. Taking Paris & Writing Bestsellers with Martin Dugard
In this episode, Sharon is joined by Martin Dugard, a fellow history buff and the bestselling author of “Taking Paris” and “Killing Lincoln.” Martin and Sharon discuss why history is anything but boring and talk about Martin’s latest book “Taking Paris.” Martin shares mind-blowing facts and never-before-heard information about the 1940 Nazi invasion of Paris; you are sure to have some brain-tingling moments! As well, Sharon and Martin discuss their love of history and learning, and Martin explains how he ended up in a Zambian prison while conducting research for one of his books. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20879555
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42. Maryland: The Man Who Gave America its Anthem with Sharon McMahon
10/18/2021
42. Maryland: The Man Who Gave America its Anthem with Sharon McMahon
In this episode, Sharon talks about a 19th century American Lawyer, Francis Scott Key, whose best-known contribution to American history was writing the US National Anthem, the Star-Spangled Banner. We all know the words “Land of the Free, Home of the Brave,” but what do we know about the man who penned them? Listen to learn the true legacy of Francis Scott Key, a man with drastically incongruent convictions about matters of national security, including war and slavery. Francis Scott Key will challenge you to question how we interpret and fulfill historic articles of our nation’s history from the Star Spangled Banner to the Constitution and beyond in the modern-day United States. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20823008
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41. Embracing the High 5 Habit with Mel Robbins
10/15/2021
41. Embracing the High 5 Habit with Mel Robbins
In this episode, Sharon is joined by bestselling author and world-renowned speaker, Mel Robbins, who talks about her latest book, The High 5 Habit. After experiencing the lowest point in her life, Mel did something life-changing: She gave herself a high-five in the mirror. Mel uncovers the magic and science behind giving yourself a high-five and explains how we can make self-encouragement a habit. Mel calls us back to ourselves and provides practical tools to feeling grounded, comfortable and confident. With wit, humor and unblinking honesty, Mel urges us to be kind to ourselves - because who knows what could happen if we were? For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20754827
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40. Maine: Staying for the Finish with Elsie Larson
10/13/2021
40. Maine: Staying for the Finish with Elsie Larson
In this episode, Sharon is joined by Elsie Larson, creator of A Beautiful Mess, to share the story of Senator Margaret Chase Smith, a Maine woman who refused to take no for an answer. Margaret Chase Smith was the first woman in U.S history to hold a seat in both houses of Congress. With nearly 40 years in office, Senator Smith's career is marked with incredible achievements, such as being responsible for the U.S moon landing and being the first woman to run for U.S president. Known for her political courage, honesty and integrity, she is a hero of democracy. Join Sharon and Elsie as they uncover the remarkable story of Margaret Chase Smith and why she gave Maine - as well as the rest of America - so many reasons to be proud. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20637611
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39. Sharon Answers Your Questions #2
10/11/2021
39. Sharon Answers Your Questions #2
In this episode, Sharon sits down to answer your burning questions about the American government. From state secession and immigration to the Library of Congress artifacts and city council, Sharon fields questions that are piquing the interest of the Governerd community. Have a question for Sharon? Visit to record a voice memo with your question for consideration in the next Sharon Q&A episode. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20593664
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38. On an Arctic Island with Cecilia Blomdahl
10/08/2021
38. On an Arctic Island with Cecilia Blomdahl
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live in the North Pole? In this episode, Sharon gets the inside scoop on Arctic living from photographer and TikTok sensation Cecilia Blomdahl. Cecilia lives in the northernmost town in the world on the Arctic island of Svalbard. Though not exactly the North Pole, Cecilia sees her fair share of polar bears and reindeer. As well, she spends two months of the winter in complete darkness and two months of the summer in 24-hours of sunlight. From living in a cabin with no running water to whale watching from her front porch, Cecilia’s life is anything but ordinary. Join Sharon and Cecilia as they talk about Cecilia’s grand adventures in Svalbard. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20593637
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37. Louisiana: The Notorious Pirate Who Saved America
10/06/2021
37. Louisiana: The Notorious Pirate Who Saved America
In this solo episode, Sharon shares the story of Jean Lafitte. Jean was a Louisiana blacksmith, and when the United States passed the Embargo Act in the early 1800s, Jean and his brother turned to smuggling goods to make a living. The smuggling escalated to full-on piracy and the brothers were instrumental in getting goods to U.S. citizens and helping the US Navy. Sharon goes into detail about Jean’s role in the War of 1812 and the importance of the Louisiana Purchase. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20593616
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36. Civility and Civic Duty with the American Moms
10/04/2021
36. Civility and Civic Duty with the American Moms
In this episode, Sharon is joined by American Moms, Andrea and Brittany. After serving as a press secretary on Capitol Hill and a speechwriter for President George W. Bush, Andrea and Brittany took their knowledge about the inner-workings of the federal government and started a viral Instagram account that takes the overwhelm out of politics. They share funny stories from their jobs and speak on the importance of promoting civility in politics. Sharon and the American Moms also give advice to listeners about how to teach their children the basics of American government and involve them in respectful political conversations. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20593592
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35. Kentucky: The Rosemary Clooney Legacy with Lauren Kachinske
10/01/2021
35. Kentucky: The Rosemary Clooney Legacy with Lauren Kachinske
In this episode, Sharon sits down with her friend Lauren Kachinske to discuss the legacy of Rosemary Clooney. Rosemary was an American singer and actress best known for her song "Come On-a My House" and the movie “White Christmas.” Born and raised in Kentucky, Rosemary was abandoned by both of her parents as a teenager. After moving to New York City in her 20s with a dream to make it as a singer, Rosemary was invited to sing on one of Frank Sinatra’s records. Rosemary faced many obstacles during her long life but served as an example of how we are all one choice away from a completely different life. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20593556
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34. Surviving the 9/11 Terrorist Attack with Shumi Brody
09/29/2021
34. Surviving the 9/11 Terrorist Attack with Shumi Brody
In this episode, Sharon is joined by Shumi Brody, a survivor of the 9/11 terrorist attack on the Twin Towers. Shumi was working in the North Tower when the plane struck the building. As she was escaping down the stairwell, a brief encounter with a firefighter changed her life forever. He told her to keep moving and stay calm. Shumi recounts the horrific sights and utter confusion she experienced that day, while also detailing the acts of love and selflessness she witnessed as people put themselves at risk to save others’ lives. She hopes to tell the story of 9/11 for those who cannot and honor the firefighter who comforted her in a moment of tragedy. As well, Sharon and Shumi discuss how to teach your children about the events of 9/11. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20593532
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33. Kansas: An Accidental Election with Sharon McMahon
09/27/2021
33. Kansas: An Accidental Election with Sharon McMahon
In this solo episode, Sharon tells the story of Susanna Madora Salter, who accidentally became the first female mayor ever elected. What started as a ploy to throw off the mayoral election by a group of men in her small Kansas town quickly turned into a historical moment. At this time, candidates could create their own ballots and campaign for votes, so Susanna had no idea that she was even on the ballot during the election. In this episode, Sharon shares facts about voting during the latter half of the 1800s and how the first female mayor came to be, even though it was meant to be a joke. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20588459
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32. Stay Curious & Keep Exploring with Emily Calandrelli
09/24/2021
32. Stay Curious & Keep Exploring with Emily Calandrelli
Sit down with Sharon as she interviews the one and only @TheSpaceGal, Emily Calandrelli. Most people are fascinated by space and the myths surrounding space. In this episode, Sharon gets Emily’s thoughts on aliens, life outside of Earth, how the space industry has changed and expanded, and what is next in space development. In addition, Sharon dives into STEM education and Emily’s career and how she made a name for herself and forged her own path in helping people stay curious and keep learning. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20535476
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31. Iowa: Musical Chairs with Mary Marantz
09/22/2021
31. Iowa: Musical Chairs with Mary Marantz
In this episode, Sharon sits down with Mary Marantz, best-selling author, podcast host, and renowned photographer, to break down the system of the Iowa caucus. Iowa caucuses are electoral events that take place every presidential election among Iowa voters. Compared to the traditional secret ballot most American voters are accustomed to, Iowa has maintained the voting system used by our nation’s founders over 200 years ago. The caucus is a universally confusing concept to voters in states without the practice. Listen to walk away with a better understanding of the Iowa caucus system and how it affects the outcome of our presidential election seasons. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20535302
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30. I Pledge Allegiance to the Facts with Mosheh Oinounou
09/20/2021
30. I Pledge Allegiance to the Facts with Mosheh Oinounou
In this episode, Sharon and seasoned journalist and news producer, Mosheh Oinounou, dive into the world of the media and the complexities of the world around us. Sharon and Mosheh discuss who and what to trust in the media as well as how to create a game plan for consuming factual and verified information. When it comes to national and international events, there is always more than meets the eye. Join Sharon and Mosheh as they uncover how listeners can see through media nuances to the bigger picture of today’s most pressing issues. This episode is powered by an allegiance to facts! For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20501114
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29. Indiana: President Of The Month with Sharon McMahon
09/17/2021
29. Indiana: President Of The Month with Sharon McMahon
In this episode, Sharon shares the story of the shortest American presidency in our nation’s history. William Henry Harrison was an American military officer and politician who served as the ninth president of the United States, elected during the 1840 election. Harrison became the first president to die in office just one month after taking the Oath of Office. Harrison was the last U.S. president born under British rule and became a pioneer of the American Whig Party during his presidential campaign. Not only was William Henry Harrison’s untimely death caused a riff controversy in the capital about the role of the vice president upon the death of the president, and the decisions that resulted ultimately set a precedent we still uphold in our democracy today. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20432075
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28. Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man
09/15/2021
28. Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man
In this episode, Sharon sits down for an uncomfortable conversation with bestselling author and Emmy-nominated host, Emmanuel Acho. Known for his viral web series and book, “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man,” Emmanuel is no stranger to navigating difficult conversations surrounding race in the United States. Emmanuel and Sharon dive head first into topics such as white privilege, teaching our children about race and the key messages of the social justice movement. Taught with grace, wisdom and unshakeable determination, Emmanuel provides tactical ways to combat ignorance, administer justice and treat others with empathy. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20432057
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27. Illinois: The White City with Ashley Lemieux
09/13/2021
27. Illinois: The White City with Ashley Lemieux
In this episode, Sharon takes Ashley LeMieux on a tour of the world’s most spectacular fair, the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. The World’s Columbian Exposition was a fair like none other. Located in Chicago on a 690-acre fairground, the exposition attracted over 27 million people. The fair dazzled visitors with 200 extravagant buildings and palaces, impressive spectacles of electric lights, the world’s first ferris wheel and exact replicas of the Niña, Pinta and Santa Maria (Columbus’ ships). Fair visitors never went hungry and were introduced to foods such as Cracker Jacks, hot dogs, brownies, Quaker Oats and cream of wheat. The World’s Columbian Exposition changed U.S history, architecture and culture in a profound way. Join Sharon and Ashley as they uncover the mind-boggling story of Chicago’s World Fair and the lasting impact it had on the world. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20432024
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23. Flying with Presidents with Wanda Joell
08/30/2021
23. Flying with Presidents with Wanda Joell
In this episode, Sharon is joined by Senior Master Sergeant Wanda Joell, the first African-American woman to serve as a flight attendant on Air Force One. Wanda gives an insider’s look into the most exclusive plane in the world - describing what the inside of Air Force One looks like and sharing stories about the various U.S presidents she served. Throughout her 24 years of service, Wanda welcomed four presidents - George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama - aboard Air Force One. Wanda explains her unique responsibilities as a flight attendant, such as cooking the presidents’ favorite meals from scratch, and describes what it was like to be in close quarters with presidents during important moments in history. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20274176
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26. Idaho: The Iron Cage of the Law with Sharon McMahon
08/30/2021
26. Idaho: The Iron Cage of the Law with Sharon McMahon
In this episode, Sharon tells listeners about an incredible woman that is often left out of the history books: Rebecca Brown Mitchell of Idaho. Rebecca was known to have a “fire in her bones” that fueled her deep passion for education and justice. Rebecca’s story begins on the dirt-floor of an abandoned saloon in Idaho Falls. There, she taught the town’s children how to read and write, and she hosted weekly Sunday School. Flashing forward a few years, Rebecca established the town’s first school and church, became deeply involved in the Idaho State legislature and led a women’s rights movement within the state. Here is the story of how Rebecca Brown did it all and eventually gained Idaho women the right to vote nearly twenty years earlier than the rest of American women were granted the same right. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20274674
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25. Hawaii: The Olympic Swim Coach Who Couldn't Swim with Kristina Kuzmic
08/30/2021
25. Hawaii: The Olympic Swim Coach Who Couldn't Swim with Kristina Kuzmic
In this episode, Sharon tells Kristina Kuzmic the story of Soichi Sakamoto, a man from Hawaii who became an Olympic swim coach when he didn’t even know how to swim himself. After teaching his boy scout troop to swim, Soichi set out on a new life’s mission: to coach Olympic swimmers. He started the Three Year Swim Club, promising his students that they would be world-class swimmers within three years. His swim club was made up of impoverished children, many of whom did not have bathing suits or enough food to sustain them through practice. As well, because he didn’t have access to a pool, Soichi resorted to teaching his first students in the water-filled ditches of Hawaiian sugar plantations. Despite the many challenges, Soichi did whatever it took to raise up Olympic athletes - from feeding them his own meals to inventing new ways to train his swimmers. This is the story of Coach Soichi Sakamoto and his journey to the 1948 Olympics. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20274500
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24. Changing Ideologies with Jen Hatmaker
08/30/2021
24. Changing Ideologies with Jen Hatmaker
In this episode, Sharon sits down with author and speaker Jen Hatmaker to address the challenges of confronting firmly held beliefs, how to grow and adapt without abandoning your identity, and giving yourself the permission to explore. If you are trying to reconcile new and old ideas amid growth and change, dive into this riveting and humorous discussion between Jen and Sharon. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20274383
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22. The Power of Words with Faith Cade
08/23/2021
22. The Power of Words with Faith Cade
In this episode, Sharon and therapist Faith Cade dive into the world of mental health and self-care. While a conversation about bubble baths and spa trips would be fun, Faith shares something so much better - how to implement practical self-love into your life. Faith explains what self-care really is and how self-affirmation can replace the negative voice inside our head with a voice that is hopeful and empowering. As well, Sharon and Faith speak on the immense responsibility we all carry: the responsibility of our personal mental health. This episode covers how we can address the anxiety and overwhelm we may be feeling from the past year by setting boundaries, protecting our emotions and practicing joyful and meaningful rest everyday. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20212877
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21. How Journalism Gets it Wrong (and Right!) with Belinda Luscombe
08/23/2021
21. How Journalism Gets it Wrong (and Right!) with Belinda Luscombe
Sharon sits down with Belinda Luscbome, TIME Magazine Editor and author of “Marriageology,” to examine the inner workings of modern journalism in America. As a veteran journalist with over 30 years under her belt at TIME Magazine, Belinda provides a wise perspective on the fate of journalism in the digital world, the importance of fact checking, how to identify credible news sources and the impact money really plays in the editorial process. Coming off the heels of one of the most controversial elections in American history, Sharon and Belinda also participate in a discussion about the value of journalism in a capitalist society. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20212775
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20. Humanizing Politics with Sarah and Beth from Pantsuit Politics
08/23/2021
20. Humanizing Politics with Sarah and Beth from Pantsuit Politics
Having a civil conversation about politics in our polarized society seems to be a near-impossible task these days. But why? In this episode, Sharon and hosts of Pantsuit Politics Beth and Sarah talk about how we can have kind, thoughtful and compassionate political discussions on and offline. Beth and Sarah talk about the political polarization we face today and why people get so up-in-arms about politics. Their answer: We care so much because we care about each other. When we realize this, we are able to diffuse arguments and have political discussions with friends and family members that are centered around connection and relationship. Sharon, Beth and Sarah teach us how to have fruitful political conversations with our friends and family - even if they hold opposite views. Political conversations can be enriching, relationship-building and thought-provoking. There is so much to learn in this episode - let’s dive in! For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20210252
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19. Georgia: A Grand Mansion of Sound with Sharon McMahon
08/23/2021
19. Georgia: A Grand Mansion of Sound with Sharon McMahon
In this solo episode, Sharon shares the story and career of opera sensation Jessye Norman from Augusta, Georgia. By the end of this episode, you will love and adore the voice of this woman, who was a pioneer in so much more than opera. Jessye was born in the 1940’s South, where Jim Crow Laws were in place - schools, businesses, and her town were still segregated. Her mother was a school teacher and taught all her children to read and play the piano - and that is where her family discovered her ability to sing. Her parents taught her that she is no different than anyone else and deserves to live her dreams. Sharon walks listeners through stories from Jessye's career and how she helped change the opera. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20210084
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18. Florida: Florida Forever with Dani Coke
08/16/2021
18. Florida: Florida Forever with Dani Coke
For this episode, Sharon and her guest Danielle Coke take a look into the Happiest Place on Earth - Disney World, and the man who created it. The two take their love for Walt Disney and dive deep into his past, including his unconventional approach to be involved in the US Army during World War I and his first big feature film Snow White. In this episode, you’ll learn how Walt Disney built his empire from humble beginnings and helped put Florida on the map as a massive tourist location with the opening of Disney World. As a bonus, Danielle is a former Disney employee and can confirm that these stories are not your typical Disney stories. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20128769
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17. Sharon Answers Your Questions #1
08/16/2021
17. Sharon Answers Your Questions #1
Introducing Sharon Answers Your Questions! This marks the first episode of Sharon randomly selecting five questions from her listeners and answering them with wit, heart, and as always -- stone-cold facts. The topics of this episode include: executive orders and Second Amendment sanctuary states. Are executive orders constitutional, and what is a Second Amendment sanctuary? As well, Sharon will explain how to weigh a historical figure’s positive contributions against their problematic beliefs and behaviors. Should past presidents be role models? Sharon will also address how to respond compassionately to people that are unintentionally spreading disinformation online and explain ways that we are currently more united as a country than in the past… These episodes are fueled by YOU. What are you curious about? Drop a voice memo , and Sharon might answer your question on the next episode of Sharon Answers Your Questions! For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to
/episode/index/show/sharonsaysso/id/20128757