What was it really like to grow up in America during the early nineteen seventies?

In this powerful episode of History Told Forward, author and podcast creator Laura Van Wormer takes us back to a world before cell phones, before seatbelts, before the internet—when kids roamed free, parents trusted streetlights, and the nation wrestled with Vietnam, Watergate, and cultural upheaval.

Laura is the creator of The Class of ’74, a serialized audio drama set in a Connecticut suburb between nineteen seventy-one and nineteen seventy-four. Drawing from her own lived experience and decades as a bestselling novelist and former Doubleday editor, she recreates a time when music, protest, war, and coming-of-age collided.

We explore:

1. How post–World War Two America created the suburbs
2. Why nearly every father wore the same “uniform” to work
3. The shadow Vietnam cast over an entire generation
4. How music, movies, and teenage rebellion shaped identity
5. Why young listeners today are discovering this era to understand their parents
6. The surprising global reach of Laura’s podcast

This is more than nostalgia. It’s a living time capsule—and a reminder that storytelling preserves the soul of history.

All links referenced in this episode:

1. The Class of ’74 Podcast (available on all platforms):
2. Apple Podcasts
3. Spotify
4. Pandora
5. YouTube
6. Podbean

(Search “The Class of ’74” on your favorite podcast platform.)

1. Doubleday
2. IBM
3. Apple Podcasts
4. Spotify
5. Pandora
6. YouTube
7. Veteran Voice Radio
8. Semper Fi Country
9. Ranger Rockwave
10. Planned Parenthood
11. The Veterans Administration (VA)

Mentioned in this episode:

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John David, a public relations whiz and award-winning author, joins us today to dive deep into the exhilarating journey of planning and writing his debut novel, "The Bystander," which snagged the 2025 Page Turner Award for mystery. We're talking all things writing, from the thrilling highs to the daunting lows, and how a casual barbecue chat about gun rights sparked the fire for his gripping tale of an active shooter thwarted by an armed bystander. As John shares his unique process, we’ll explore the age-old debate between plotters and pantsers—those who meticulously outline their stories versus those who go with the flow. So grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and come along for the ride as we unravel the fun, creative chaos that comes with crafting a novel! Authors After Action is back with a bang, and this time we're diving deep into the world of writing with the incredible John David! He's not just your average Joe – he's a seasoned public relations guru, corporate ghostwriter, and, oh yeah, an award-winning author! His debut novel, *The Bystander*, won the prestigious Page Turner Award for mystery in 2025 and has already started making waves in the thriller genre. What's even more fun? John’s got a playful side – he loves fishing, chatting about politics, and rooting for the Florida Gators (we won’t hold it against him!). In this episode, we chat about everything from the birth of his writing journey to the challenges he faced while penning his first fiction piece. John shares his transition from a PR consultant to an author, revealing how his extensive background in journalism and marketing influenced his storytelling. We also explore the age-old debate between 'plotters' and 'pantsers' – do you plan your entire story or just let the characters take you on a wild ride? Spoiler alert: John’s a proud pantser, and his insights will resonate with anyone who’s ever stared at a blank page wondering what happens next.

Takeaways:

1. John David's journey from PR consultant to award-winning author highlights the importance of life experiences in storytelling.
2. The difference between plotters and pantsers in writing can shape how one approaches their novel, each method has its pros and cons.
3. Finding joy in the writing process is crucial; if you're not having fun, it's likely your readers won't either.
4. Balancing a busy professional life with writing requires flexibility and creativity; sometimes you need to steal moments throughout the day.
5. The importance of character development is emphasized, as authors often draw from real-life experiences and people they know.
6. Mental health issues can deeply influence storytelling, allowing authors to address real societal problems through fiction.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. byjohndavid.com
2. bookshop.org

Creators at Work is a conversational podcast focused on creativity through lived experience.

Each episode features podcasters, writers, artists, filmmakers, and digital creators discussing what they make, why they started, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Rather than tutorials or trend-chasing, the show centers on honest conversations about creative process, persistence, and growth.

Episodes are audio-only and run approximately thirty to forty-five minutes, offering space for thoughtful discussion without pressure or hype.

Creators at Work is part of the Barracks Media Network, bringing meaningful conversations to listeners interested in creativity grounded in experience and purpose.