The Class of ’74

#17 BRIGHTON SECRETS: STORMY DAYS, SCHOOLYARD SCANDALS

In Episode 17, Cynthia navigates a chaotic school day at Brighton High: an economics quiz exposes Cynthia and her classmates as well-meaning but clueless children of privilege; Cynthia introduces straight-arrow junior, Charlie, to Katey; Cynthia employs her best truth-bending skills to avoid punishment from Vice Principal Eagleton; Betsey explodes when Cynthia suggests perhaps she's lost too much weight; and the ever- enchanting Senora Cardova is floored by Cynthia.
Visit The Class of '74 at Patreon.com to meet the nicest people in America in The Detention Club.
 
Written and Narrated by Laura Van Wormer
Produced by Ryann Robinson
 
Ending Music: "Happy Feels" by All Good Folks
https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/happy-feels
License code: GRNTI8X4ANCVCNEU
 
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK
 
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#18 A CLIFFHANGER AT BRIGHTON HIGH

Against a background of science, Cynthia navigates the fallout from a shocking Saturday night as friendships fracture and secrets surface 
Cynthia meets Señora Cardova's husband when a reporter radios for help to file a story, and the school erupts when the Brighton Police launch a search.
Visit The Class of '74 at Patreon.com to meet the nicest people in America in The Detention Club.
 
Written and Narrated by Laura Van Wormer
Produced by Ryann Robinson
 
Ending Music:  Moonlight Hall by Kevin Macleodhttps://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/moonlight-hallLicense code: JFLICPHYSXGAOBZQ
 
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK
 
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#19 VANISHED AFTER PRACTICE: THE CASE OF CLAY SETON

When sophomore football player Clay Seton doesn’t return home after a Sunday practice, rumors spread, police coordinate a campus-wide search, and classmates recount where they last saw him.
The episode follows the tense search—from whispers in the library and cafeteria to a rescue—ending on a shocking discovery that leaves more questions than answers.
Visit The Class of '74 at Patreon.com to meet the nicest people in America in The Detention Club.
 
Written and Narrated by Laura Van Wormer
Produced by Ryann Robinson
Aerial Photograph was taken by Mike Moore in 1970
 
Ending Music:  "Pulsar" by Sky Cassette @ Uppbeat.io 
https://uppbeat.io/t/sky-cassette/pulsar
License code: IF3RST3BPVZ5STAL
 
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK
 
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#20 TIED IN SILENCE: CLAY'S RESCUE AT BRIGHTON HIGH

Clay is discovered bound and gagged in the school stadium snack bar; police, medics, and students rush to free him while Cynthia watches in fear and relief. Despite severe bruising and numbness, Clay walks out and is taken to the hospital, leaving questions about his attackers unanswered.
The episode follows the tense rescue, the emotional fallout among classmates and teachers, and the lingering mystery of who tied him up, ending with hope and a call to keep watching.
Visit The Class of '74 at Patreon.com to meet the nicest people in America in The Detention Club.
 
Written and Narrated by Laura Van Wormer
Produced by Ryann Robinson
 
 
Ending Music: “Keep Going” by Ra @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/keep-going
License code: NHIJ7KL2FN2Q84RY
 
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK
 
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#21 CYNTHIA IS IN OVER HER HEAD

In this episode Cynthia struggles with worry and exhaustion as she searches for  books and answers.
Cynthia confides in a guidance counselor about Betsey Satterfield’s weight loss, drinking, and risky behavior; the counselor promises confidentiality and to handle the situation. While the police launch an investigation into the kidnapping of Clay Seton, Cynthia waits at home with her mother and Mimi for news of his condition.
Visit The Class of '74 at Patreon.com to meet the nicest people in America in The Detention Club.
 
Written & Narrated by Laura Van Wormer
Assisted by Ryann Robinson
 
 
 
 
Ending Music: “Blue Planets" by All Good Folks @ Uppbeat.io 
https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/blue-planets
License code: 5DTAQMTJRVBWPCUY
 
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK
 
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#22 AND THAT'S IT? NO ONE'S GOING TO DO ANYTHING?

Cynthia panics after learning Clay was rushed to Mass General in an effort to save his hand. As she searches for answers and updates on his condition, the episode shifts between tense phone calls, town gossip, grim national news about Attica Prison, and the latest on the local front - that a psycho may be on the loose in Brighton.
Visit The Class of '74 at Patreon.com to meet the nicest people in America in The Detention Club.
 
Ending Music: "Haunted Lullabies” by Tomas Herudek @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/sfx/haunted-lullabies-creepy-music-box-piano-music/167345/58692 
 
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK
 
Written and Narrated by Laura Van Wormer
Assisted by Ryann Robinson
 
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#24 HOMEROOM, GEOMETRY, ENGLISH, SPANISH

Cynthia sees Mimi off on her first day of school, learns Not-Fred's real name, hears rumors about a drug dealer, juggles questions about her fractured friendship with Betsey Satterfield, tries not to reveal anything about Clay's situation, learns about the gold standard in such a way as to put her asleep, and is celebrated in Spanish for her ham radio adventure reporting on Attica.
Going into the season finale, attractions, budding romances and mysteries abound.
 
Visit The Class of '74 at Patreon.com to meet the nicest people in America in The Detention Club.
 
 
Written and Narrated by Laura Van Wormer
Assisted by Ryann Robinson
 
Ending Music: "Fiesta Barcelona" by Christian Larssen @ #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/christian-larssen/fiesta-barcelona
License code: TEZ4ZOF8ORBOBMTO
 
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK
 
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#25 UNEXPECTED INFORMATION, UNEXPECTED EVENTS Season 1 Finale

In this special 1-hour season finale, Cynthia navigates rumors, tensions, and uneasy alliances after a chaotic weekend—Teddy begs her to intervene in the prosecution of Victor Wronski, Betsy’s behavior sparks gossip, while Didi and others tease out uncomfortable details.
A mysterious new student, Lincoln, causes a stir at school, while a late, shaky call from Clay leaves Cynthia reeling. There are multiple cliffhangers setting up Season Two, which begins on Valentine's Day, 2026. 
Visit The Class of '74 at Patreon.com to meet the nicest people in America in The Detention Club.
 
Written & Narrated by Laura Van Wormer
Join Laura's Detention Clubhouse at Patreon!
The cover photo of the Shah and Empress of Iran in 1971 was taken by by Carlo Bavagnoli.
 
Ending Music: "Existence" is by Simon Folwar @ #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/simon-folwar/existence
License code: SEPAUB0NLVSNS17Y
 
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK
 
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#23 MIMI IS THE COOLEST

After learning that Victor Wronski  — the steroid-fueled attacker — has left the hospital, Cynthia worries about Evan's safety while trying to follow the detective's plea to keep quiet. Meanwhile Mimi embraces a bold new persona with dramatic flair, winning attention at school, and Cynthia navigates friendships, family moments, and the tension between grown-up investigations and teenage life.
The episode mixes suspense about Wronki's freedom, tender family scenes, and Mimi's surprising transformation into a confident, theatrical presence.
 
Visit The Class of '74 at Patreon.com to meet the nicest people in America in The Detention Club.
Written and Narrated by Laura Van Wormer
 
Assisted by Ryann Robinson
 
Ending Music: "Misstep” by Illya Kuznetsov @ Uppbeat.io https://uppbeat.io/track/ilya-kuznetsov/misstep
License code: B29E7GIIPIYSLTXD
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK
 
#Classof74Podcast

The Class of '74 Returns: Season 2 Kicks Off Feb 14!

The story of the early 1970's continues! 
Season Two of The CLASS OF '74 premiers on Saturday, February 14.
Cynthia and the Brighton High gang return to raise more hell — so get ready for more rock-and-roll teenage fun, chaos and complicated relationships!

Friday the 13th: Class of '74 — Season One Refresher

A concise refresher of Season One before Two begins tomorrow. Newcomers to the story are welcome to listen to this for a little but then Laura will send you away before the plot spoilers of Season One begin.
The Class of '74 opens in 1971, following 15-year-old Cynthia Schuyler as she navigates high school, shifting relationships, and a changing America.
Recaps key Season-One events: Cynthia's complicated love life (and relationships in general!), new and troubled classmates, Clay Seton's injury, and what happened to Cynthia's father in Washington DC— setting the stage for the first episode of Season Two.
Join THE CLASS OF '74 at Patreon and meet the nicest people in America! 
Written & Narrated by Laura Van Wormer
 
Middle Music(1) "Spectral Starfall” by Martin Kurtz @ Uppbeat.io 
https://uppbeat.io/t/kurtz-martin/spectral-starfall
License code: FQNQSV0NPBS7JJWP
 
Middle Music (2) : "Divine Fate” by Martin Kurtz @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/kurtz-martin/divine-fate
License code: NGII655QGLARAAUE
 
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK

STAY CALM AND CARRY ON — Season 2 Premiere

Season 2, Episode 1: On the Valentine's Day premiere, Cynthia faces a day of crises — her father rushed to the hospital with a suspected heart attack while Clay lies injured and restrained after a violent incident. Between frantic phone calls, a mysterious tip about a mistaken abduction, and the arrival of a devoted housekeeper, Cynthia struggles to keep calm amid fear and uncertainty.
Detective Fiduccia pursues leads, friendships are tested, and domestic life rearranges itself as the community rallies around the Seton family. The episode blends suspense, emotional family moments, and small acts of care that set the tone for the season.
Join THE CLASS OF '74 at Patreon and meet the nicest people in America! 
Written & Narrated by Laura Van Wormer
Ending Music: Glistening Glades by Kurtz Martin @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/kurtz-martin/glistening-glades
License code: DAYEWCVA5P87WDFX
 
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK

#2 LIFE IS FULL OF SURPRISES

Season 2 Episode 2: Cynthia faces a whirlwind day — her father’s chest pain turns out to be costochondritis, Mimi undergoes yet another surprising makeover, and Cynthia and friends get VIP tickets to the women's final at Forest Hills. Evan returns to school, new student Lincoln neatly silences a bully about Frank Robinson's 500th home run, and more surprises are in store before homeroom is even over! 
Join THE CLASS OF '74 at Patreon and meet the nicest people in America! 
Written & Narrated by Laura Van Wormer
 
Ending Music: Encounter Expedition by Kurtz Martin @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/kurtz-martin/encounter-expedition
License code: DAYEWCVA5P87WDFX
 
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK
 
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#3 HOW TO GET OVER IT

After seeing Evan kissing someone else, Cynthia struggles with jealousy, humiliation, and embarrassment. Looking for a place to cry, she walks in on a group of illicit pot smokers, then on a pair of grappling lovers, and then becomes a witness to forgery! 
Cynthia’s "Introduction to Guitar" class unexpectedly bucks up her spirits and after the ever-glamorous Senora Cordova encourages Cynthia to pull herself together, she meets up with Annabel and Mimi to leave for the U.S. Tennis Open, but they’re not even out of the school parking before Detective Fiducia arrives, triggering what will undoubtedly be a tidal wave of gossip across Brighton High.
Join THE CLASS OF '74 at Patreon and meet the nicest people in America! 
Written & Narrated by Laura Van Wormer
Ending Music: Plus Point Seven Five by Sound Roll @ Uppbeat.io https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/plus-point-seven-five
License code: KD5AZH5N0ILGNDBL
 
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK
#Classof74Podcast

#4 DRIVING TO NEW YORK – SKIPPED CLASS, SECRET BOAT, AND SKETCHY CHARACTERS

A group of Brighton High friends set out for Forest Hills with stolen cigarettes, a plan to buy beer, and dreams of cruising Long Island Sound in a 22-foot Chris-Craft, but an unexpected event turns their trip into a tense cliffhanger.
Meanwhile, secrets about relationships, family histories, and sexual fantasies surface, and Cynthia and her friends have a lot to think about. 
Join THE CLASS OF '74 at Patreon and meet the nicest people in America! 
Written & Narrated by Laura Van Wormer
Ending Music: Zero Pulse by Iros Young @ Uppbeat.io
 https://uppbeat.io/t/iros-young/zero-pulse
License code: XE8WLNBIY8FHUGTL
 
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK
#Classof74Podcast

#5 I NEVER BELIEVE ME: TEENAGE CHARM & DESPERATE MANEUVERS

Cynthia leads the delicate attempt to escape the mess she and Annabel, Mimi and Greg find themselves in across the state line in Port Chester, New York involving fake IDs, hiding evidence, a heroin drug bust, a smashed up car and coordinating lies to the police. (Oh, is that all?) 
Will they ever reach the West Side Tennis Club in Forest Hills to watch the U.S. Open final between Billie Jean King and Rosie Casals? 
 
Written and Narrated by Laura Van Wormer. 
Join The Detention Club at Patreon.com and hang out with the nicest people in America.  
Ending Music: Free Fall by Monument Music @ Uppbeat.io https://uppbeat.io/t/monument-music/free-fall
License code: IAOOZXNDVUWOA4IA
Bumper Music: "Bring the Energy" by Soundroll @ Uppbeat.io
https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/bring-the-energy
License code: DZY6URYZV6Z4X7RK
 
#Classof74Podcast