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The Modern Tapes

The Modern Tapes

Written by: Dr. Nic Hoffmann
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About this listen

The past 30 years are hard to teach—too close, too complex, too current. As a historian, I rely on hindsight and archives. But what happens when you hand the story to high schoolers and let them decide what matters? The Modern Tapes explores the recent past through student voices as they unpack the politics, culture, and events that shaped their world—proving that history isn’t just what happened; it’s how we tell it.Dr. Nic Hoffmann World
Episodes
  • Blackrock and Larry Fink
    Feb 11 2026

    In this episode of The Modern Tapes, Evan explores the rise of BlackRock and its founder, Larry Fink — from a Wall Street bond trader to the architect of modern financial power. The episode unpacks how one company’s algorithms came to shape global markets, influence policy, and redefine the balance between public authority and private capital. This is the story of capitalism’s quiet coup — not a revolution in the streets, but one written in balance sheets.

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    16 mins
  • The JonBenét Ramsey Case: Conspiracy, Media, and Mystery
    Feb 4 2026

    Episode Description:

    In this episode of The Modern Tapes, Madison Kleine dive into one of America’s most haunting unsolved cases — the death of JonBenét Ramsey. Through critical discussion, they explore the conflicting theories that have captivated the public for decades: from intruder hypotheses to family involvement, and even the bizarre “Katy Perry” conspiracy.


    Blending investigative curiosity with empathy, this conversation examines how evidence, rumor, and pop culture collided to create one of the most perplexing modern myths. The episode asks what happens when tragedy becomes entertainment—and whether the truth can ever be recovered beneath the noise.


    Tags: True Crime, JonBenét Ramsey, Cold Case, Media Studies, Conspiracy Theories, American Culture, The Modern Tapes, Unsolved Mysteries

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    15 mins
  • The Tragedy of Kurt Cobain
    Jan 28 2026

    In this episode of The Modern Tapes, students explore the life and legacy of Kurt Cobain — the reluctant voice of a generation. Through his lyrics, interviews, and the echoes of grunge, they trace his rise from a small-town musician to a cultural icon who changed the face of music. This episode examines Cobain’s creative genius, his struggles with fame and pain, and the enduring power of his words and music to speak to those who feel unseen.

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    16 mins
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