Jennifer Bennie, MA
Jennifer (Mitchell) Bennie, MA, is a historian, museum professional, and content creator dedicated to connecting audiences with the past through immersive storytelling. As the host of the Walk With History YouTube channel and the Talk With History podcast, she takes viewers and listeners on-location to explore historic sites, sharing research-driven insights that bring history to life. Her work emphasizes authenticity and critical thinking, encouraging people to engage directly with primary sources and understand how historical events continue to shape the present.
A former officer and helicopter pilot in the United States Navy, Jennifer was the first in her class and served multiple deployments, including work with Navy SEALs and special operations. Her military experience shaped her leadership style, resilience, and commitment to service, which she continues through volunteer work as a Pin-Ups for Vets ambassador and as an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. She also contributed to historical preservation, including authoring and installing a historic marker in Downtown Memphis based on her master’s research.
Jennifer holds a Master’s degree in American History and a Graduate Certificate in Museum Studies from the University of Memphis, as well as a BS in Accounting from Penn State University. She currently serves as Underway Historian for American Cruise Lines and continues to inspire history enthusiasts worldwide, highlighting stories that blend scholarship, civic engagement, and lived experience. Her mission remains to educate and inspire others to explore history in their own communities and connect personally with the stories that shape our world.
• Delivering an Authentic Elevator Pitch
• Transitioning from Waterfall to Agile Project Management
• Visio 2019 Essential Training
• Writing White Papers
• Project Management Foundations
• University of Memphis - M.A.
• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
• Association of Naval Aviators
• The Lynching Sites Project of Memphis
• Pinups for Vets
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of dedication, continuous learning, and the guidance of mentors who have supported me along the way. In particular, JD Hewitt from History Underground has been an invaluable mentor, providing insights and encouragement that have significantly contributed to my professional growth.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to dream big, stay disciplined, and believe in yourself. Success isn’t about fleeting inspiration—it comes from consistent effort, perseverance, and a commitment to your goals. Keep pushing forward, trust in your abilities, and let your work speak for itself, making you truly undeniable.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, curiosity, and a commitment to education. In my current role as a history creator and host of Walk with History on YouTube and the Talk with History podcast, my mission is to educate and inspire others to connect with the history in their local communities. My background as one of the first female helicopter pilots in the Navy after 9/11 shaped my dedication to discipline, service, and storytelling, and it ultimately influenced my decision to pursue a career in history after leaving the military. I strive to bring those same values—resilience, curiosity, and a passion for sharing knowledge—into every project I undertake.
Locations
Walk with History
Collierville, TN 38017