In this conversation, John Ficklin discusses his book ‘An Unusual Path,’ which chronicles his family’s history intertwined with significant events in American history, particularly their experiences in the White House. He reflects on the impact of historical moments such as the assassination of President Kennedy and 9/11, shares personal anecdotes from his time working in the White House, and explores the evolution of African American representation in this iconic institution.
00:00 The Impact of November 22, 1963
03:07 A Family Legacy in the White House
06:11 The Watergate Experience
09:01 Reflections on 9/11
12:04 Life Inside the White House
14:54 The Evolution of African American Roles
18:01 Personal Anecdotes and Reflections
21:00 The Journey from Slavery to the White House
Guest Information
John Ficklin
Dr. Dale Atkins
Get “An Unusual Path” https://shop.whitehousehistory.org/products/an-unusual-path-three-generations-from-slavery-to-the-white-house
Get “The Turquoise Butterfly” https://amzn.to/4kokAYD
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Dr. Dale Atkins on the web: https://www.drdaleatkins.com/
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