Why the Past Still Matters (and Always Will): Future History with Dustin Mack from the History Museum at the Castle

13/05/2025 29 min
Why the Past Still Matters (and Always Will): Future History with Dustin Mack from the History Museum at the Castle

Listen "Why the Past Still Matters (and Always Will): Future History with Dustin Mack from the History Museum at the Castle"

Episode Synopsis

In this inspiring episode of The Sponge Show, host Brad Cebulski sits down with Dustin Mack, the newly appointed Executive Director of the History Museum at the Castle in Appleton, Wisconsin. Dustin shares how his deep passion for history grew from a personal journey of understanding the present through the lens of the past, and how that passion now fuels his mission to make history more accessible, immersive, and relevant to the community. From the bold vision behind the museum's cutting-edge “You Are Here” exhibit to the importance of telling both proud and painful stories from our shared past, this conversation explores how local history can empower identity, empathy, and transformation.



But it’s not just about exhibits, it’s about the future. Dustin reveals exciting plans to consolidate cultural assets in the Fox Valley, turning the museum into a hub for arts, history, science, and education. Imagine a vibrant museum campus where kids, families, and tourists can explore astronomy, minerals, local culture, and art all in one block. Whether you’re a lifelong learner, a parent, an educator, or just someone curious about what makes Appleton tick, this episode offers a compelling look at how preserving the past can pave the way to a stronger, more connected future.