Host Justin Williams explores how New Jersey revolutionized tourism with guests Bryant Simon, professor of history at Temple University, and author of 'Boardwalk of Dreams, Atlantic City and the fate of Urban America' and Hope Gaines, member of Cape May Center for Community Arts History Committee and co-author of Black Voices of Cape May.

Show notes: https://www.revnj.org/s/Ep-1-Tourism-Show-Notesdocx.pdf

"Garden State Roots" is the podcast that wants to put an end to New Jersey being the butt of the joke for evermore. After 250 years of revolutionary history, it's time to give props to NJ's contribution to the modern culture of America, if not the world. From music to film, sports to tech, food to politics, host Justin Williams and guests explore the unique historical moments and inspirational people that has made the Garden State so fertile to change down the years.

Host Justin Williams is joined by New Jersey governor Phil Murphy and author and Rutgers University professor Dr. Kristin O'Brassill-Kulfan to explore the importance of history in 2026 and to preview the upcoming 'Garden State Roots' podcast series.

Host Justin Williams is joined by New Jersey governor Phil Murphy and author and Rutgers University professor Dr. Kristin O'Brassill-Kulfan to explore the importance of history in 2026 and to preview the upcoming 'Garden State Roots' podcast series.

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of History

02:56 New Jersey's Revolutionary Legacy

05:57 Personal Connections to History

08:52 The Dangers of Historical Distortion

11:47 Facing Uncomfortable Truths

14:57 New Jersey's Cultural Contributions

18:05 Empathy Through Historical Understanding

20:59 Celebrating New Jersey's 250th Anniversary

24:03 Reclaiming New Jersey's Narrative

27:01 The Future of New Jersey's History