Deep Dive: Galveston’s Storm, Richard the Lionheart, and the Long Story of 'Literally' - September 8, 2025
Jason Miller and Sophia Reed examine the 1900 Galveston hurricane’s devastation and its long-term societal and economic effects, unpack Richard I’s legacy and governance impact, and trace two centuries of figurative use of the word “literally.”
In this Deep Dive episode, our hosts discuss the lasting impacts of catastrophic weather, medieval kingship, and evolving language.
• 📜 On this day in 1900, hurricane-force winds up to 120 mph struck the Texas Gulf Coast, killing more than 6,000 people and all but destroying the city of Galveston — we explore the human toll, infrastructure collapse, economic consequences, and how communities and institutions rebuilt and rethought risk management.
• 🎂 We celebrate the birthday of Richard I of England (1157) and focus on his tenure from 1189–1199 — his Crusader reputation, how his prolonged absences affected governance and crown finances, and how his legend shaped chivalric ideals and royal legitimacy for centuries.
• 💡 Fact of the day: the word "literally" has been used figuratively for over 200 years — we discuss what that history reveals about language change, why style guides clash with usage, and implications for communication, branding, and legal clarity.
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• 📜 On this day in 1900, hurricane-force winds up to 120 mph struck the Texas Gulf Coast, killing more than 6,000 people and all but destroying the city of Galveston — we explore the human toll, infrastructure collapse, economic consequences, and how communities and institutions rebuilt and rethought risk management.
• 🎂 We celebrate the birthday of Richard I of England (1157) and focus on his tenure from 1189–1199 — his Crusader reputation, how his prolonged absences affected governance and crown finances, and how his legend shaped chivalric ideals and royal legitimacy for centuries.
• 💡 Fact of the day: the word "literally" has been used figuratively for over 200 years — we discuss what that history reveals about language change, why style guides clash with usage, and implications for communication, branding, and legal clarity.
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🎧 Subscribe for more insights.
Creators and Guests
Producer
Chad Thompson
Chad Thompson is the producer of Neural Newscast, bringing his expertise in technology, cybersecurity, media production, DJing, music production, and radio broadcasting to deliver high-quality, engaging news content. A futurist and early adopter, Chad has a deep passion for innovation, storytelling, and automation, ensuring that Neural Newscast stays at the forefront of modern news delivery. With a background in security operations and a career leading cyber defense teams, he combines technical acumen with creative vision to produce informative and compelling broadcasts. In addition to producing the podcast, Chad creates its original music, blending his technical expertise with his creative talents to enhance the show's unique sound. Outside of Neural Newscast, Chad is a dedicated father, electronic music enthusiast, and builder of creative projects, always exploring new ways to merge technology with storytelling.
