Womanica-logo

Womanica

History Podcasts

Thinking back to our history classes growing up, we had one question: Where the ladies at? Enter, Womanica. In just 5 minutes a day, learn about different incredible women from throughout history. On Wonder Media Network’s award-winning podcast, we’re telling the stories of women you may or may not know — but definitely should.

Location:

United States

Description:

Thinking back to our history classes growing up, we had one question: Where the ladies at? Enter, Womanica. In just 5 minutes a day, learn about different incredible women from throughout history. On Wonder Media Network’s award-winning podcast, we’re telling the stories of women you may or may not know — but definitely should.

Twitter:

@wmnmedia

Language:

English


Episodes
Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Architects: Julia Morgan

3/7/2025
Julia Morgan (1872-1957) was an American architect based in the San Francisco area. She designed, rebuilt, and remodeled hundreds of buildings, most famously the Fairmont Hotel and the Hearst Castle. She was the first woman to gain an architecture license in California and posthumously won the AIA Gold Metal from the American Institute of Architects. For Further Reading: Julia Morgan: An Intimate Biography of the Trailblazing ArchitectA Brief History of the Hearst Castle and Architect Julia MorganAhead of Her Time: Julia Morgan This month, we’re talking about Architects. These women held fast to their visions for better futures, found potential in negative space, and built their creations from the ground up. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:09:05

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Architects: Shirley Jackson

3/6/2025
Shirley Jackson (1946-present) is an accomplished American physicist and mathematician who dedicated her career to studying the particles that make up our universe and to improving and supporting the diversity of people studying and dedicating themselves to the sciences. For Further Reading: Jackson, Shirley Ann | Women of the HallThe Remarkable Career of Shirley Ann Jackson | MIT Technology ReviewFull Event Video: An Evening With Shirley Ann Jackson This month, we’re talking about Architects. These women held fast to their visions for better futures, found potential in negative space, and built their creations from the ground up. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:06:21

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Architects: Suzette Haden Elgin

3/5/2025
Suzette Haden Elgin (1936-2015) was a writer and linguist who constructed a whole language called Láadan for her beloved Native Tongue series. In the series, women resist their oppressive patriarchal society through a language of their own creation that helps them better express their realities. For Further Reading: Suzette Haden Elgin (1936–2015) - Encyclopedia of ArkansasIn her 1984 science fiction novel ‘Native Tongue,’ linguist Suzette Haden Elgin created a feminist language from scratch - The ConversationalistLáadan, the Constructed Language in Native Tongue, by Suzette Haden ElginSuzette Haden Elgin and Randy Farran — Dragons, Cows & Kudzu's (1986) This month, we’re talking about Architects. These women held fast to their visions for better futures, found potential in negative space, and built their creations from the ground up. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:06:23

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Architects: Sara Josephine Baker

3/4/2025
Sara Josephine Baker (1873-1945) was a doctor specializing in public health who revolutionized preventative measures for mothers and infants in the early 20th century. In an era when typhoid, dysentery, and smallpox ravaged New York City’s impoverished tenement populations, she is estimated to have saved the lives of roughly 90,000 children through her work. For Further Reading: Baker, Sara Josephine (1873-1945)The Doctor Who Made a Revolution | Helen Epstein | The New York Review of BooksSJ Baker: The New Yorker who saved 90,000 infantsSara Josephine Baker, Lesbian Scientist Changed The Face Of Public Health - CURVE This month, we’re talking about Architects. These women held fast to their visions for better futures, found potential in negative space, and built their creations from the ground up. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:08:07

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Architects: Maria Carlota Costallat de Macedo Soares

3/3/2025
Maria Carlota Costallat de Macedo Soares (1910-1967), often remembered simply as Lota, was a Brazilian designer and urban planner. She is best known for transforming Rio de Janeiro’s Flamengo Park into a harmonious blend of nature and modernity, crafting one of the world’s largest urban parks. For Further Reading: Architectural Review: Maria Carlota Costallat de Macedo Soares (1910-1967)Soul mates #3 Lota de Macedo SoaresOldschool Rio: An ambitious project called Aterro do FlamengoSoul mates #3 Lota de Macedo SoaresOldschool Rio: An ambitious project called Aterro do FlamengoOldschool Rio: An ambitious project called Aterro do Flamengo This month, we’re talking about Architects. These women held fast to their visions for better futures, found potential in negative space, and built their creations from the ground up. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:05:57

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: Eulalie Spence

2/28/2025
Eulalie Spence (1894-1981) was a playwright, director, and teacher from the British West Indies. She made a living as a school teacher, a profession she stayed in for 40 years, but truly made a name for herself by winning awards in several theater competitions. As a self-described “folk dramatist,” her plays depict everyday Black life. This led her to gain criticism from contemporaries like W.E.B. Du Bois, whom she was in the famed Krigwa Players with. She authored some fourteen plays, five of which were published, including “Episode,” “Fool's Errand,” “Her,” “The Hunch,” and “Undertow.” Her works continue to be studied and performed today. For Further Reading: Eulalie Spence, Playwright of the Harlem Renaissance EraBlack Female Playwrights: An Anthology of Plays before 1950Review: In Eulalie Spence’s Harlem, the 1920s Come to Life - The New York Times This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:09:54

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: Georgette Seabrooke

2/27/2025
Georgette Seabrooke, also known as Georgette Seabrooke Powell, (1916-2011) was an American muralist, artist, illustrator, art therapist, and community educator. She is best known for her mural Recreation in Harlem at Harlem Hospital, which she made while working for the WPA in 1936. A true lifelong learner, Seabrooke was educated at the Harlem Community Art Center, and studied at the Cooper Union, Fordham University, and Howard University, and many other institutions. For Further Reading: Georgette Seabrooke PowellAt Harlem Hospital, Murals Get a New LifeAt the Feet of a Master: What Georgette Seabrooke Powell Taught Me About Art, Activism, and the Creative Sisterhood“Recreation in Harlem” This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:08:15

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: Anne Spencer

2/26/2025
Anne Spencer (1882-1975) was a poet, educator, and activist. Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, she advanced local efforts for literacy, access, and civil rights. Her home also became a hub for Black writers and activists traveling to the South. For Further Reading: Virginia Public Media: The Garden That Inspired a Harlem Renaissance PoetUVA Today: Through a Harlem Renaissance Poet’s Garden, and Into Her Work and LifeNational Women’s History Museum: Anne Spencer This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:06:28

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: Effie Lee Newsome

2/25/2025
Effie Lee Newsome (1885–1979) was a Harlem Renaissance poet and activist. She is most famous for her volume of children’s poetry, Gladiola Garden: Poems of Outdoors and Indoors for Second Grade Readers. As the NAACP got started, Newsome also worked extensively with W.E.B DuBois on TCrisis magazine, writing poetry for the magazine and editing the “Little Page” column. Her writings merged nature with the fight for civil rights, linking natural history and conservation to the problems of segregation. For Further Reading: Wonders: The Best Children's Poems of Effie Lee NewsomeDouble-take: A Revisionist Harlem Renaissance AnthologyEffie Lee Newsome, Poems in "The Crisis," 1910-1926 This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:08:14

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: Edna Lewis Thomas

2/24/2025
Edna Lewis Thomas (1885-1974) was a stage actress during and after the height of the Harlem Renaissance. For Further Reading: Edna Thomas, Lloyd Thomas & Olivia Wyndham ResidenceEdna Thomas collection1936: Macbeth With an All-Black Cast Plays Bridgeport This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:05:01

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: Jennie Louise Touissant Welcome

2/21/2025
Jennie Louise Touissant Welcome (1885-1956) was one of the first Black female silent film creators in the 1910s and 20s, most well known for her documentary, Doing Their Bit. She was also a renowned painter, musician, and real estate mogul who ran the Toussaint Conservatory of Art and Music. For Further Reading: Jane Louise Van Der Zee Toussaint WelcomeJane Louise Van Der Zee: One of the first black woman filmmakers in the countryLegendary Harlemite Jennie Louise Van Der Zee “Madame E. Toussaint Welcome” 1885-1956 This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:06:27

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: Helene Johnson

2/20/2025
Helene Johnson (1906-1995) was an African-American poet during the Harlem Renaissance. She is remembered today for her poetry that captures both the challenges and the excitement of this era during her short-lived career. For Further Reading: Helene Johnson, Poetic Voice of the Harlem RenaissanceToward an Understanding of Helene Johnson’s Hybrid Modernist PoeticsPoets: Helene JohnsonORAL HISTORY INITIATIVE: On Helene Johnson & the Harlem Renaissance This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:04:20

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: Norma Miller

2/19/2025
Norma Miller (1919-2019) was a professional dancer dubbed “The Queen of Swing” for her mastery of the popular Jazz Age dance the Lindy Hop. For Further Reading: Norma Miller, Lindy-Hopping ‘Queen of Swing,’ Is Dead at 99 - The New York TimesThe Queen Of Swing Takes Old Age In Stride : NPRNorma Miller is still 'Alive and Kicking' and the focus of a new documentaryFrom Harlem to Herrang: An Original Lindy Hopper Blooms in Sweden - The New York Times This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:06:11

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: Edyth Mae Gordon

2/18/2025
Edythe Mae Gordon (c. 1890-1980) was an African American writer of poetry and short stories during the Harlem Renaissance. Her work was primarily published in the Saturday Evening Quill, a Boston based publication founded by her husband and fellow Harlem Renaissance figure Eugene Gordon. Little is known about her both before or after her marriage to Gordon, but her most famous work is her 1928 short story “Subversion” which was listed among the year’s distinguished stories by the O Henry Award prize committee. For Further Reading: Literary Sisters: Dorothy West and Her Circle, A Biography of the Harlem Renaissance 9780813552132 - DOKUMEN.PUBSelected works of Edythe Mae GordonThe Saturday Evening Quill April 1929 This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:05:16

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: Georgia Douglas Johnson

2/17/2025
Georgia Douglas Johnson (1880-1966) was one of the most well-known Black female writers, poets, and playwrights of her time. Though she spent most of her adult life in Washington D.C., she is considered a predominant figure of the Harlem Renaissance.Georgia became known for her weekly Saturday salons she hosted at her home with fellow black writers, intellectuals and contemporaries, which became known as the S Street Salon. For Further Reading: Georgia Douglas Johnson | National Women's History Museum10 Poems by Georgia Douglas JohnsonVoice from the Gap: Georgia Douglas Johnson This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:06:26

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: Rose McClendon

2/14/2025
Rose McClendon (1884–1936) was a trailblazing African-American actress and director who rose to prominence on Broadway during the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s and 30s. Rose became known for her powerful performances in plays like the Pulitzer Prize-winning play In Abraham's Bosom and Langston Hughes’ Mulatto. Rose co-founded the Negro People's Theatre, contributed to the Federal Theatre Project, and championed opportunities for Black performers. For Further Reading: Black Past: Rose McClendonRose McClendon scrapbooksBroadway Photographs: Rose McClendonFirst lady of the Black stage, Rose McClendon This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:05:10

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: Laura Wheeler Waring

2/13/2025
Laura Wheeler Waring (1887-1948) was an American artist known for her landscapes, still-lifes, and portraits of African-American life. She was a significant figure in the Harlem Renaissance and a civil rights activist whose time spent abroad in France greatly influenced her artistic work. For Further Reading: Artnet: Laura Wheeler WaringThe New York Amsterdam News: Painter Laura Wheeler Waring, noted for her portraits and illustrationsThe New York Times: With ‘Gems’ From Black Collections, the Harlem Renaissance ReappearsThe New Yorker: Brightening the History of HarlemJSTOR: "A CONSTANT STIMULUS AND INSPIRATION": LAURA WHEELER WARING IN PARIS IN THE 1910s AND 1920sBiennale Art: Laura Wheeler WaringThe University of Chicago: Laura Wheeler Waring This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:05:01

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: May Miller

2/12/2025
May Miller (1899-1995) was considered the most widely published woman playwright of the Harlem Renaissance. Though she was almost entirely based in Washington, D.C. during the era, she still managed to attract acclaim from her contemporaries and earn her place in the movement for her many plays and poems. For Further Reading: May Miller | African-American, Feminist, Poet | BritannicaWASHINGTON POET, PLAYWRIGHT MAY MILLER SULLIVAN DIES AT 96May Miller | The Poetry FoundationDust of Uncertain Journey This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:05:50

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: Ida Forsyne

2/11/2025
Ida Forsyne (1883-1983) was an African-American vaudeville dancer, known for her unique take on the famous Cakewalk dance. As a self-taught performer from the southside of Chicago, Ida appeared in various shows worldwide and toured her solo act across Europe. Eventually, audiences in the U.S. would come to outgrow her dance style, but Ida continued to stand by her craft and perform on her own terms into her 60s. For Further Reading: Another Forgotten Lady — Ida ForsyneIda Forsyne Remembers When Talent Helped in Show Business"Ida Forsyne" in Vaudeville Old and New: An Encyclopedia of Variety Performances in America, Volume 1Cakewalker This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Hannah Bottum, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, and Vanessa Handy. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:06:18

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Renaissance Women: Adelaide Hall

2/10/2025
Adelaide Hall (1901-1993) was a Brooklyn-born singer, actress, and performer. She made her debut in one of the first Black-led Broadway shows and remained a fixture both on New York’s Broadway and London’s West End for more than three decades. Her contributions to Duke Ellington’s “Creole Love Call” are also believed to be one of the first recordings of “scat” singing. Adelaide settled in Europe in her later years, ultimately making her home in London. For Further Reading: Harlem World: The Legendary Adelaide Louise Hall’s Rich Harlem History, 1901 – 1993Wolfgang's Documentaries & Interviews: Adelaide Hall - Interview - 7/6/1980 - Town Hall Theatre (Official)British Library: Oral History of Jazz in Britain: Max Jones interviews Adelaide HallBFI: Adelaide Hall at the Nightingale Club, London (1948) This Black History Month, we’re talking about Renaissance Women. As part of the famed cultural and artistic Harlem Renaissance movement, these women found beauty in an often ugly world. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Hannah Bottum, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, and Vanessa Handy. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Original theme music composed by Miles Moran. Follow Wonder Media Network: WebsiteInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:05:47