Most presidential libraries are built to remember a presidency in archives. This project began with a unique challenge: How can we tell Theodore Roosevelt’s story to inspire people to become better citizens, leaders, and stewards of the world? And how can we make the visitor, not Roosevelt, the hero of the story? What emerged isn’t a traditional museum or archive. It's an immersive journey through Roosevelt's life that invites you to step into the story.
We’re releasing a special episode — our host today is Ted Roosevelt V, interviewing Charlie Melcher, Founder and CEO of the Future of StoryTelling, and Ed O’Keefe, CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. Ted, Ed, and Charlie look back on how the library started, the challenges and triumphs felt along the journey, and where it stands today following the library’s opening and the celebrations and reflections of America 250.
To learn more, visit our website at fost.org.
To get your copy of Charlie’s book, The Future of Storytelling, visit thefutureofstorytelling.com/home.
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© 2026 Future of StoryTelling, Corp.
Produced by Future of StoryTelling, Corp.
124 West 13th Street
New York, NY 10011
Founder and CEO, Charles Melcher
Director, Carolyn Merriman
Assistant Producer, Tsuki Carlson
in collaboration with Charts & Leisure
Founder, Jason Oberholtzer
Producer, Michael Simonelli
Editor, Garrett Crowe
Mix and Music, Michael Simonelli
With special thanks to Ted Roosevelt V, Ed O’Keefe, Madison Brown, Lor Simpson, David Gray, Bonnie Eldon, and Megan Worman.
