How We Got Here, presented by 12 On Your Side, is a podcast highlighting Virginia's rich history, one week at a time.

In this episode of How We Got Here, we introduce you to the Paul Revere of the South, one of Ulysses S. Grant's biggest failures on the battlefield and why we learned more about death than liberty from Patrick Henry. We also catch up with a little boy who survived a lightning strike, and we examine why the 75th anniversary of D-Day means more to one Virginia community than most.

In this episode of How We Got Here, we explain how the Civil War's Siege of Petersburg could have lasted two days instead of nine months and why Virginia played such a big role in shaping the Declaration of Independence. We also share a “loving” story that changed marriage laws across the country, plus the horrifying moments as lawmakers, practicing America’s pastime, take cover when a gunman opens fire on a baseball field.

In this episode of How We Got Here: The devastating path of Hurricane Agnes that paralyzed Richmond, and Virginia’s ties to the bungling burglars of Watergate. Find out how Captain John Smith got “Disney’ed,” and how country music was born out of the mountain music of southwest Virginia – with a chaser of Johnny Cash.

In this episode of How We Got Here: The derecho that devastated Central Virginia, and Aaron Burr’s ties to Richmond that saved his life. A tap dancing legend breaks racial barriers, and how the Seven Days’ Battles changed the landscape of the Civil War. Plus, Elvis’ escapades in Virginia, and his last show in the river city.

In this episode of How We Got Here: Happy Birthday America! It’s also the anniversary for the deaths of several presidents. We show you how Virginia got its name and bring you the mythology behind the woman bearing her breast on the state seal. We hear from the “proud spirited ladies” left behind during the Civil War – plus the conclusion of the seven days’ battles.

In this episode of How We Got Here: Richmond’s role in the domestic slave trade, brought to light by the uncovering of a slave burial ground. Three men killed in a tank in World War II are finally honored 75 years later. How the river city remembered the longest serving Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, John Marshall. And we’re serving up a segment on the incredible life and legacy of tennis great and Richmond-native, Arthur Ashe.

In this bonus episode of How We Got Here, we go behind the scenes with Digital Director Kate Albright and Executive Producer Colten Weekley to tell you how we got to this idea, and what it takes to put each episode together. You’ll hear about some of our favorite guests and which segments really surprised us. Stick around for the end of the episode for exciting news about the future of How We Got Here.