Episode 42 - Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library with Susan Sarna and Michael Cullinane

Talk About Teddy Live at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library (TeddyCon 2026) Hosts Kurt Skinner and Larry Marple record a live episode in the newly opened Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, and welcome guests Susan Sarna (TRPL senior curator of collections) and Dr. Michael Cullinane (TRPL senior historian) to explain how the library’s exhibits were built from a collaboratively written story guide and interpretive messaging, balancing artifacts, narrative, media, conservation needs, and team compromises. They discuss the library’s immersive, experiential approach and its aim to “humanize, not lionize” Roosevelt, including greater context and attention to family influences. The conversation covers acquiring and loaning artifacts worldwide, rotating displays, future collecting, and creating the Microsoft-enabled “Talk with TR” AI experience using vetted Theodore Roosevelt Center records.