I Graduated... Now What?

Thoughts on where I've been and where I want to go

When I launched Civics & Coffee at the height of the COVID-19 global pandemic, I did not think it would last very long; and I definitely did not anticipate that it would last four years (in August). I was also unprepared for the amazing network that welcomed me and the many opportunities the podcast would bring my way. Back then, all I knew was that 2020 was quite a historic year — a year filled with social injustice, community activism, and a worldwide health crisis, among many other things — and that my friends and I chatted about history a lot. In my conversations, I noticed a trend: people who otherwise touted their disdain for history were asking thoughtful historical questions and were eager to learn. This got me thinking: were there others out there who “hated” history, yet had a true desire to learn more?

By deciding to publish yet another history podcast, I knew I was joining the ranks of some heavy hitters in the industry. When I was crafting the basic framework of C&C, I knew I wanted to connect busy adults with history and to spur their curiosity. Adults have so many demands on their time and I knew that I wanted to hit the sweet spot of covering U.S. history in a way that was both engaging, but that left people with questions. What is history, after all, if not asking questions? So, I began researching exactly what it would mean to launch a podcast.

I have always been a little bit of a technophobe and so I had a lot of doubts about whether I would be able to wrap my mind around all the various pieces of technology and software that went into creating a quality podcast. Thankfully, Apple makes it pretty easy with their GarageBand Software and my husband helped me decide on the right microphone. All that was left was the research, writing, recording, and editing. No big deal, right?

A funny story: my first official episode 1492? Says Who? was recorded twice. I did one take as a super serious, dedicated scholar who was giving everyone a lecture. When I listened to it I cringed. HARD. I walked away, enjoyed a glass of wine and came back and tried again. On the next take, I made a conscious effort to not take myself too seriously and try to have fun. I sent both versions of the first episode to a friend of mine who agreed the second, looser episode matched who I was as a person and therefore had a better chance at connecting with audiences. It remains the most downloaded episode to date. (Author’s note: I do not make it a habit of imbibing alcohol before a recording, but in this one instance, it felt necessary. Call it beginners nerves.)

To say I rediscovered my love of reading, writing, and talking about history would be an understatement. I felt such joy in figuring out what my next episode should be and where the research would lead. One of the best experiences in launching the show was the community. My fellow history podcasters welcomed me immediately and I remain incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported the show in its infancy. Your messages, advice, and feedback have been invaluable in making this show what it is.

However, the best part of this whole thing? Connecting with you, the listener. People from all walks of life have found my little podcast and have been enthusiastic in their support. Civics and Coffee is streamed across the globe and it still amazes me that I have listeners in countries I’ve never been to including Finland, Spain and Serbia (to name a few). YOU are why I keep coming back each week. YOU are why I strive to do things better. And YOU are what helped give me the confidence to apply to a graduate program.

Returning to pursue my master’s was terrifying. I was convinced I would be out of place and that I would fail out after one semester. Instead, I met some of the best humans on the planet and reconnected with a long admired mentor (if you read this, Hi, Steve!). I conducted oral history interviews, wrote historiographies, and read more history books in a four month period than I ever thought possible. I finished strong, with a thesis that I am incredibly proud of and one I think has potential for more (but more on that later). But despite the mountains of papers, research, and reading I had to get done for my program, I remained dedicated to ensuring you all had fresh episodes each week. It wasn’t always easy, but I somehow got it done.

Personal Photo

I’ve spent the last several weeks and months contemplating my next steps. 2024 has been a bit a whirlwind for me and I am still processing everything, but I know a few things for certain: I want to remain a part of the historical community and contribute to the conversation and I want to continue making Civics and Coffee the best it can be for all of you.

I have some ideas of new things to try over the next few months (including this here Substack) and I hope to hear more from you about what you would like to see from the C&C universe. I’ll be running polls and seeking (constructive) feedback to ensure this is a space you all continue to enjoy. This show has always been about YOU, dear listeners. I think about you all the time; when I am day dreaming about topics, or thinking about new things to try, you remain at the forefront of my mind. I hope you all enjoy the things to come and continue being the best darn audience a woman could ask for.

Until then, I look forward to enjoying our weekly cups of coffee together.

All the best,

Alycia