The Hosts
Meet the hosts of "Ambivalent Offenders" - the podcast that explores the fascinating and often overlooked stories of questionable historical figures. These twin sisters are passionate about uncovering the truth behind the rumors and propaganda. Join them on their journey as they delve into each historical figure and decide how history should judge them.
Jamie Poljanac
Co-Host
I'm Jamie and I'm a former social studies teacher. I taught for 9 years, both middle and high school, in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. History in particular has always been my passion (not many high school students order their own "Robespierre" sweatshirt or write a play about Robespierre with their twin...for fun). As a teacher, I got to create history electives around topics I found the most fascinating, including the one that inspired this podcast called "History's Greatest Villains on Trial." I currently work in education in the Twin Cities area.
My academic background, in case that didn't convince you enough of my nerd credentials, is in history as well; I graduated with a BA in History at the University of Minnesota and also have my Masters in Social Studies Education. In my free time, I wrangle kids, except this time my own two. Occasionally I get to watch tv or a movie.
Erin Poljanac
Co-Host
I'm Erin, your other co-host. I've been a life-long fan of history--Tudor girlies, rise up--and even in high school, Jamie and I wrote our own Robespierre play out of nerdy enjoyment. Robespierre and Napoleon's birthdays were celebrated with homemade cakes. While I studied English at the University of Minnesota, I have continued to be drawn to history with all its fascinating and improbable stories. In my free time, I love to write, read, and, of course, digest as many history podcasts as I possibly can. Medieval, Roman, and Early Modern time periods are my current go-to, but I am not monogamous when it comes to historical periods! I work as an I.T. professional and am currently raising two adorable but crazy cats with my husband, Matt