The Post and Courier has announced Bob Crawford as the next featured guest for its Charleston Porch Talks speaker series. The event will take place Thursday, April 16, 2026, at noon at Alumni Memorial Hall in Randolph Hall at the College of Charleston.
Crawford is best known as the Grammy-nominated bassist for the folk band The Avett Brothers. Beyond his music career, he has become a popular public historian. In 2020, he earned a master’s degree in history from Arizona State University. He is also the creator of the podcast Founding Son: John Quincy’s America and co-host of The Road to Now history podcast.
Crawford will discuss his debut book, America’s Founding Son: John Quincy Adams, From President to Political Maverick (March 10, 2026), which explores Adams’ fierce independence, his activism for democracy and his pivotal role in the early crusade against slavery. Autographed copies will be included with tickets through Buxton Books, the official book sponsor.
“Local journalism is the root of our First Amendment freedoms, a truth John Quincy Adams championed throughout his life. I’m thrilled to be discussing my biography of Adams where the power of history and the strength of community dialogue come together to support the future of a free press,” Crawford said.
The speaker series launched in fall 2025 with best-selling authors Elin Hilderbrand and Craig Johnson.
“Since its launch, Charleston Porch Talks has been incredibly well received by our community,” said Chris Zoeller, chief opportunity and marketing officer of The Post and Courier. “We are thrilled by the continued momentum and are excited to bring such an engaging and dynamic voice.”
Charleston Porch Talks events feature in-depth discussions between speakers and journalists that focus on ideas and storytelling rather than traditional presentations.
All profits benefit The Post and Courier’s Public Service & Investigative Fund, which supports the newsroom’s investigative reporting and public service journalism, ensuring that local journalism continues to thrive in South Carolina.
Charleston Porch Talks also connects directly to The Post and Courier’s Journalism Preservation Society. Members help fund public service journalism while receiving priority access to events, including reserved seating and VIP access.
Tickets go on sale to the public on April 1, 2026. For early ticket access information, visit CharlestonPorchTalks.com or email porchtalks@postandcourier.com.