OREM, Utah — Greg Jackson, Utah Valley University professor and host of the podcast “History That Doesn’t Suck,” will appear in the History Channel’s series called “The Engineering That Built the World.”

The series premiere featuring Jackson called “Race for the Railroad” ran Oct. 10, 2021, and told the story of how the Transcontinental Railroad was built. On Oct. 17, he appeared again on the series’ second episode detailing the construction of the Statue of Liberty, “Liberty Rising.” New episodes will air weekly at 7 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time.

"Having Professor Jackson featured multiple times on the History Channel speaks to his credibility as a historian and to the quality of teaching at Utah Valley University,” said Wayne Vaught, provost and senior vice president at Utah Valley University. “His extensive knowledge and fun teaching style have made him one of our most sought-after professors.”

Jackson is a perfect fit at Utah Valley University, where faculty are encouraged to innovate and share their expertise with passion and excitement, engaging their students in ways that help them retain what they have learned and discover how to think and reason. His teaching style fits the university’s engaged curriculum and learning, which leads to student success.  

A History Channel producer discovered Jackson’s expertise while listening to his “History That Doesn’t Suck” podcast episodes on the Transcontinental Railroad. She was intrigued by his delivery and depth of historical knowledge. The producer reached out to Jackson to discuss the possibility of having him participate in a series of historical episodes, the first being about the railroad.

“It was a very fun and exciting summer project,” Jackson said. “The History Channel flew me to New York City multiple times where the episodes were filmed. I have become very familiar with John F. Kennedy International Airport!”

When asked if he would consider doing another series with the History Channel, he said, “One hundred percent yes, I would do it again. The people at the History Channel have been very gracious hosts and very accommodating. But most importantly, I was impressed with their rigor. After the interviews, they had people fact-check my statements and stories.” According to Jackson, it was a six-month process from beginning to end. It started in late spring when the producer first called, with the premiere episode airing on Oct. 10, 2021.

Jackson’s podcast, “History That Doesn’t Suck,” is listed in the top 20 shows in the nation that address historical topics. On average, there are over a half-million downloads a month from his show. Teachers across the country use his podcasts in the classroom.

Jackson is chair and associate professor of integrated studies and deputy director of National Security Studies at Utah Valley University, as well as the creator and host of the podcast “History That Doesn’t Suck.” He earned his Ph.D. in history from the University of Utah and teaches the history sections of geopolitical courses in the National Security Studies program.

According to Perspectives on History, the news magazine of the American Historical Association, the History Channel is part of A&E Television Networks and is a 24-hour-a-day programming service that began broadcasting in January 1995. It features original documentaries, special miniseries, and historical movies in its nightly prime-time schedule. Part of the History Channel's mission is to raise awareness about the vitality of history, promote history education, and encourage the preservation of historical archives and sites.