The Homance Chronicles
Welcome to “The Homance Chronicles” podcast, where we celebrate women’s history in the most captivating way – by sharing stories about incredible women we should all know but often don’t. Join us for our weekly series, “Hoes of History,” where Nicole and Sarah discover the untold stories of women who defied expectations, shattered barriers, and paved the way for future generations. BUT… if you start from episode 1, get ready for a surprise. This podcast isn’t just about historical heroines. It’s also a space for women to not be ashamed of their dating disasters, sex fails, and overall poor choices. If you’re into hearing lighthearted and mildly embarrassing hookup stories that might make you cringe and laugh simultaneously -- then you’ll want to start from the beginning. There’s a sprinkling of finding self-worth, personal growth, and coaching along the way too.
info_outline
Episode 285: Hoes of History: Zheng Yi Sao aka Ching Shih
04/25/2024
Episode 285: Hoes of History: Zheng Yi Sao aka Ching Shih
One of history's most captivating figures: Zheng Yi Sao, better known as Ching Shih – the Pirate Queen of China was born in 1775 in Guangdong Province, China. We recount Zheng Yi Sao's remarkable rise to power alongside her husband, the notorious pirate captain Zheng Yi, and the fateful events that propelled her to command the Red Flag Fleet, one of the most formidable pirate armadas to ever sail the South China Sea. She transformed from a humble working-class girl into a strategic genius and fearless leader, earning her the title of Pirate Queen. She implemented a strict code of conduct, ensuring order and unity within her vast fleet. We explore the challenges she faced from the Qing Dynasty and Western powers, and learn how she orchestrated her retirement from piracy, negotiating a historic pardon that secured amnesty for herself and her crew. Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/30977573
info_outline
Episode 284: Hoes of History: Suzanne Morrow Francis
04/18/2024
Episode 284: Hoes of History: Suzanne Morrow Francis
Suzanne Morrow Francis, affectionately known as Suzi, was born in Toronto, Canada where she took on figure skating to strength her leg after an injury and then dominated the skating world. Suzi's passion for figure skating propelled her to unparalleled success, culminating in historic victories at the 1948 Winter Olympics and the 1948 World Figure Skating Championships alongside her partner, Wallace "Wally" Diestelmeyer. Despite the demands of her athletic career, Suzi pursued a career in veterinary medicine, earning her doctorate amidst the rigors of training and competition. Her dedication extended beyond the clinic, as she became a renowned All-Breed dog show judge and a pioneering figure skating judge on the global stage. Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/30877778
info_outline
Episode 283: Hoes of History: Annette Kellerman
04/11/2024
Episode 283: Hoes of History: Annette Kellerman
Born in Australia in the late 19th century, Annette Kellerman defied societal norms from a young age. Overcoming childhood illness, she discovered her love for swimming, a passion that would propel her to international fame. As one of the first women to attempt long-distance swims, Annette shattered records and captivated audiences with her daring feats. But Annette's impact extended beyond the pool. As a champion of women's rights, she challenged conventions of beauty and athleticism, advocating for freedom of movement and expression. Her iconic one-piece swimsuit, scandalous at the time, revolutionized swimwear and paved the way for greater female participation in sports. Yet, Annette's journey was not without its trials. From facing censorship for her bold performances to enduring personal hardships, she remained resilient in the face of adversity. Through it all, she continued to push boundaries, blazing a trail for women in sports and entertainment. Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/30775378
info_outline
Episode 282: Hoes of History: Janis Joplin
04/04/2024
Episode 282: Hoes of History: Janis Joplin
Janis Joplin was an iconic rock and blues singer whose raw talent and unapologetic spirit left an indelible mark on the music world. From her humble beginnings in Port Arthur, Texas, to her rise to fame as the queen of psychedelic rock in the 1960s, Janis Joplin's journey is one of resilience, passion, and ultimately tragedy. You'll discover the struggles Janis faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry, her battles with addiction, and the profound impact of her music on a generation hungry for authenticity and rebellion. We'll also examine the legacy she left behind, from her unforgettable performances at Woodstock and Monterey Pop to her tragic death at the age of 27. Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/30674463
info_outline
Episode 281: Hoes of History: Angela Burdett Coutts
03/28/2024
Episode 281: Hoes of History: Angela Burdett Coutts
Angela Burdett Coutts was a philanthropist whose legacy continues to inspire generations. Born into privilege in 1814, Angela defied societal expectations by dedicating her life to charitable endeavors. From a young age, Angela demonstrated a deep empathy for the less fortunate, advocating for social reform and championing various causes. As one of the wealthiest women in Victorian England, she utilized her fortune not for personal gain, but to uplift those in need. Join us as we explore Angela's pioneering efforts in education, housing reform, and women's rights, challenging the norms of her time and leaving an indelible mark on society. From establishing schools and affordable housing to supporting women's access to education and employment, Angela's philanthropic pursuits were revolutionary and far-reaching. Despite facing opposition and skepticism, Angela remained undeterred, leveraging her influence to effect tangible change in the lives of countless individuals. Her legacy lives on through the institutions she founded and the countless lives she touched. Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/30575543
info_outline
Episode 280: Hoes of History: Saint Brigid
03/21/2024
Episode 280: Hoes of History: Saint Brigid
Born in the 5th century, St. Brigid's journey is shrouded in myth and legend, yet her impact on Irish culture and spirituality remains profound to this day. Our exploration begins with the early years of Brigid, born into a pagan family but destined for greatness in the Christian faith. We uncover the miraculous stories surrounding her birth, where flames illuminated her presence, symbolizing her future as a beacon of light and hope. As we navigate through her remarkable life, we discover Brigid's unwavering commitment to serving others, which led her to establish monastic communities that provided refuge, education, and healing to countless souls. Her compassion knew no bounds, as she tirelessly worked to alleviate the suffering of the poor and marginalized. But perhaps most striking is St. Brigid's embodiment of feminine empowerment in a predominantly patriarchal society. As one of Ireland's patron saints, she challenged societal norms and advocated for women's rights, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of Irish Christianity. Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/30472548
info_outline
Episode 279: Hoes of History: Melitta Bentz
03/14/2024
Episode 279: Hoes of History: Melitta Bentz
Melitta Bentz, the pioneering inventor behind the modern coffee filter. Born in Dresden, Germany, in 1873, Bentz's story is one of ingenuity, perseverance, and entrepreneurial spirit. From humble beginnings as a housewife frustrated with the bitterness of coffee grounds in her brew, Bentz embarked on a journey that would revolutionize the way we enjoy our morning cup of joe. With a simple idea and determination, she created the world's first coffee filter using a brass pot, blotting paper, and her son's school notebook. Little did she know that this invention would lay the foundation for her future success. As we trace Bentz's journey, we uncover the challenges she faced in a male-dominated society, where her entrepreneurial pursuits were met with skepticism. Yet, undeterred by setbacks, she established the Melitta Bentz Company in 1908, introducing her patented coffee filter to the world. Her innovation not only improved the taste of coffee but also streamlined the brewing process, making it more convenient for households worldwide. Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/30367923
info_outline
Episode 278: Hoes of History: Bertha Benz
03/07/2024
Episode 278: Hoes of History: Bertha Benz
Bertha Benz, the wife and business partner of Carl Benz, played a pivotal role in the invention of the automobile and the success of the Benz Patent-Motorwagen, the world's first automobile. Born in 1849 in Pforzheim, Germany, Bertha Benz defied the norms of her time by embracing her husband's passion for engineering and automobiles. Despite societal expectations, Bertha supported Carl's vision and became an integral part of his experiments and endeavors. Bertha took an audacious 1888 road trip, an unprecedented feat that transformed the perception of automobiles from mere novelties to practical vehicles. With her two sons by her side, Bertha embarked on a daring 66-mile journey from Mannheim to Pforzheim, demonstrating the viability of the Benz Patent-Motorwagen and igniting public interest in the automobile. Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/30265898
info_outline
Episode 277: Hoes of History: Mamie Till
02/29/2024
Episode 277: Hoes of History: Mamie Till
The extraordinary story of Mamie Till, a mother whose profound grief transformed into a catalyst for change during one of the darkest periods in American history. Mamie Till's life is a testament to the power of maternal love and the pursuit of justice. Her son, Emmett Till, became a tragic symbol of racial violence when he was brutally murdered at the age of 14 in Mississippi in 1955. Mamie's decision to display her son's mutilated body at his funeral exposed the brutality of racism in the Jim Crow South to the world, igniting a firestorm of outrage and galvanizing the civil rights movement. We discover Mamie Till's unwavering determination to seek justice for her son, despite facing threats and intimidation. Her courage in the face of unimaginable tragedy inspired countless others to join the fight for equality and justice. Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/30159418
info_outline
Episode 276: Hoes of History: Shirley Chisholm
02/23/2024
Episode 276: Hoes of History: Shirley Chisholm
Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman to be elected to the U.S. Congress and earned the nickname “Fighting Shirley.” From her humble beginnings in Brooklyn, New York, to her historic achievements as the first African American woman elected to the United States Congress, Shirley Chisholm's journey is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to justice. We get into her groundbreaking presidential campaign in 1972, where she shattered barriers as the first African American major-party candidate and the first woman to seek the Democratic Party's nomination for president. Throughout her career, Shirley Chisholm fearlessly advocated for marginalized communities, championing issues such as civil rights, women's rights, and education reform. As we reflect on her legacy, we examine Shirley's enduring impact on American politics and her legacy as a tireless advocate for equality and representation. From her famous words, "If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair," to her lasting influence on the next generation of leaders, Shirley Chisholm's legacy continues to resonate today. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/30074073
info_outline
Episode 275: Hoes of History: Phyllis Wheatley
02/15/2024
Episode 275: Hoes of History: Phyllis Wheatley
Phyllis Wheatley was a young African woman who defied the odds of her time to become one of America's most celebrated poets. Born in West Africa and enslaved at just seven years old, Phyllis Wheatley's trajectory is a testament to resilience and the power of the human spirit. Despite the harsh realities of slavery, Phyllis's intellect and poetic talent shone brightly. Her remarkable abilities caught the attention of her enslavers, who recognized her extraordinary potential. As we unravel Phyllis's life, we uncover the complexities of her experiences as an enslaved person in 18th-century America. From her early years of learning to read and write in secret, to the publication of her groundbreaking poetry collection, her story is one of triumph over adversity. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/29963213
info_outline
Episode 274: Hoes of History: Margaret Hamilton
02/08/2024
Episode 274: Hoes of History: Margaret Hamilton
From her early days as a mathematics prodigy to her groundbreaking work at NASA, Margaret Hamilton's story is one of perseverance, innovation, and dedication to advancing technology. We explore how her innovative approach to software development and her insistence on rigorous testing. Both helped ensure the success of the Apollo 11 moon landing, solidifying her place in history. We uncover the challenges and triumphs that shaped Margaret Hamilton's career, from navigating a male-dominated industry to advocating for greater recognition of software engineering as a critical component of space exploration. We also examine her later work in software development, including her pioneering efforts in the field of systems programming and her contributions to the advancement of software engineering practices. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/29849753
info_outline
Episode 273: Hoes of History: Lucille Ricksen
02/01/2024
Episode 273: Hoes of History: Lucille Ricksen
Lucille Ricksen, a luminary of the silent film era whose promising trajectory was cut short by tragedy. Born in Chicago in 1909, Ricksen's entrance into the world of entertainment was early and marked by exceptional talent. We trace her journey from child actress to leading lady, exploring her significant contributions to the burgeoning film industry. Lucille's early success, including notable collaborations with renowned directors such as Marshall Neilan, solidified her status as one of the rising stars of silent cinema. However, her life takes a somber turn when she has a nervous breakdown and witnesses her mother's early passing. The episode carefully navigates through the final chapter of Lucille Ricksen's life, exploring the circumstances surrounding her untimely death at the age of 14. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/29744768
info_outline
Episode 272: Hoes of History: Mary E. Cobb
01/25/2024
Episode 272: Hoes of History: Mary E. Cobb
Nail polish dates all the way back to Babylonian times starting in Egypt, then making it's way to China and India. It didn't make it's way to Europe and the United States until the 1800's. Throughout history it was used as an identifier of wealth, royalty, and the upper class. Often times, certain colors depicted which class of people you were. The first nail salon opened in Paris in the late 19th century. Mrs. Mary E. Cobb was from America, but visiting France when she learned the art of manicuring. She made edits to their process when she came back to New York and turned manicuring into a full-on business. She branced out across the nation and added other services like hairdressing and skincare to her salons. She took the nail industry to new heights with her innovative techniques and products. Her and her ex-husband invented the emery board and red and pink nail polishes. They had the market cornered. Mary became one of the most successful businesswomen in the world. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/29621633
info_outline
Episode 271: Hoes of History: Bessie Coleman
01/18/2024
Episode 271: Hoes of History: Bessie Coleman
Bessie Coleman, a trailblazing aviator who defied racial and gender barriers to become the first African American woman to hold a pilot's license. Join us as we explore Bessie's humble beginnings in Texas, her determination to overcome obstacles, and her relentless pursuit of a dream that would change aviation history. From working as a manicurist to save money for flying lessons to traveling to France to earn her pilot's license when no American flight school would admit her, Bessie's story is one of resilience and perseverance. We delve into the challenges she faced in a segregated and male-dominated industry, and how she used her platform to advocate for equality and inspire future generations. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/29535603
info_outline
Episode 270: Hoes of History: Women in Real Estate
01/11/2024
Episode 270: Hoes of History: Women in Real Estate
Women have dominated the real estate industry in recent years, but it definitely didn't start out that way. For a long time women couldn't buy or own property in their name. They couldn't join the National Association of Realtors. They couldn't get financing without their husband. There a handful of women we highlight in this episode who said f*ck you to the patriarchy and made it possible for women to take over in the real estate industry today. However, the facts and figures still show a disparity between the payoff of owning real estate for men and women. Single women have bought more homes than sinlge men every year since at least 1981, but their homes are somehow worth less. I know... it pisses us off too. Here's just a few of the early pioneers who defied societal norms: Corrine Simpson Catherine Bauer Ebby Halliday Dorcas Helfant-Browning Bridget "Biddy" Mason Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/29437863
info_outline
Episode 269: Hoes of History: Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler
01/04/2024
Episode 269: Hoes of History: Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler
Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler was the first African American woman in the United States to earn a medical degree. Dr. Crumpler's journey began in a society where racial and gender inequalities were deeply entrenched. Born in 1831, she faced formidable obstacles as an African American woman aspiring to become a physician. Yet, against all odds, Dr. Crumpler demonstrated extraordinary resilience and determination. She made significant contributions to the medical field, such as her groundbreaking book, "A Book of Medical Discourses," which remains a testament to her commitment to advancing medical knowledge. Her accomplishments extended beyond personal success; Dr. Crumpler dedicated her career to providing medical care to underserved communities, especially during the Civil War. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/29333228
info_outline
Episode 268: Hoes of History: Donna Reed
12/21/2023
Episode 268: Hoes of History: Donna Reed
It's Christmastime, so we're talking about the iconic, Donna Reed. She played Mary Bailey (the wife) in the timeless classic, "It's a Wonderful Life." As a natural born beauty she was quickly identified by Hollywood producers and started appearing in films at just 20 years old. During World War II, she quickly became a leading lady in Hollywood. She was typecast into playing the "girl next door" and tried to break this image that was crafted for her by taking on a character who was a sex worker. Unfortunately, she didn't break free of her typecasting, but she did win an Academy Award. She ultimately decided to play by her own rules and create her own sitcom called, "The Donna Reed Show." Her and her husband at the time produced it and she starred in it. It was a sleeper hit, but eventually was nominated and won awards. Beyond the screen, Donna became a peace activist during the Vietnam War, co-chairing the anti-war group, Another Mother for Peace. Uncover the personal struggles she faced, including a divorce and her battle with pancreatic cancer, all while maintaining her grace and resilience. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/29177328
info_outline
Episode 267: Hoes of History: Minerva Parker Nichols
12/14/2023
Episode 267: Hoes of History: Minerva Parker Nichols
Minerva Parker Nichols is one of the first feamle architects and was the first woman to own her own architecture firm. From her early years as a trailblazer in education to her groundbreaking work as a pioneering suffragist, Minerva Parker Nichols defied societal norms and shattered glass ceilings. In addition to create success for herself she was also determined to empower other women and contribute to the disenfranchised. Many of the buildings she designed over 100 years ago still stand today. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/29070298
info_outline
Episode 266: Hoes of History: Anna Sutherland Bissell
12/07/2023
Episode 266: Hoes of History: Anna Sutherland Bissell
Anna Sutherland Bissell was a Canadian-American businesswoman who was the first female CEO in the United States. Anna became a teacher at just 16 years old and then married Melville Bissell three years later. They had five children together. They moved from Wisconsin to Kalamazoo, Michigan to Grand Rapids, Michigan where they settled and had a successful crockery business. Anna was involved in the business from the start and inspired the invention of the carpet sweeper. She was having a hard time keeping the shop clean from all the dust coming out of new cases of dishes. So, Melville stepped in determined to find a solution. He created a rotating brush that swept the dust into an attached container, known as the first carpet sweeper. They patented the invention together and immediately began selling it to retailers. Then, Melville passed away unexpectedly and Anna became CEO of the Bissell company. Her leadership transformed the company into a household name and led to further inventions, like the vacuum. She was also instituted policies like workman's compensation, pensions, and vacations unlike any other manufacturers or companies in the 19th century. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/28967968
info_outline
Episode 265: Hoes of History: Mata Hari
11/30/2023
Episode 265: Hoes of History: Mata Hari
Mata Hari is an infamous exotic dancer and accused spy whose life was shrouded in intrigue and seduction. Her name became synonymous with espionage during the early 20th century. Born Margaretha Geertruida Zelle in the Netherlands, Mata Hari's life took unexpected twists and turns that led her from a tumultuous marriage to becoming the toast of Parisian society as a celebrated dancer. Her exotic performances captivated audiences, and she soon found herself at the center of a whirlwind of fame and scandal. As World War I erupted, Mata Hari's life took a darker turn. Accused of being a double agent, she faced espionage charges that would change the course of her destiny. Explore the details of her sensational trial, the espionage allegations, and the controversy surrounding her ultimate fate. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/28854028
info_outline
Episode 264: Hoes of History: Sarah Josepha Hale
11/23/2023
Episode 264: Hoes of History: Sarah Josepha Hale
Sarah Josepha Hale is known as the "Mother of Thanksgiving," but she's so much more than that. She was an American writer, activist, and editor. At the age of 18, in 1806, she started teaching at a school; however, women were not allowed to be teachers at that time and most women weren't even being taught how to read. She married David Hale and they shared a similar love for learning and reading, spending every night teaching each other about they found interesting. They had five children together, but sadly David passed away unexpectly while she was pregnant with their 5th child. She was left to figure out a way to support herself and her children. She relied on her higher than average education, especially for a woman at the time, and put her faith into her writing abilities. She submitted articles, poems, and even wrote her first novel, "Northwood; A Tale of New England," with great success. Sarah’s career was firmly established, making her one of the first American women novelists and one of the first of either gender to write a book about slavery. She's also the author of, "Mary Had a Little Lamb." She served as the editor aka "editress" of the Ladies' Magazine, the first substantial magazine in the United States for Women. She later became the editor of Godey's Lady's Book for forty years, retiring in 1877 when she was almost 90. Throughout all of this she spent decades campaigning for Thanksgiving to be a national holiday. She eventually convinced President Abraham Lincoln and determined that the last Thursday of November will be a National Day of Thanksgiving, so the American people could celebrate grace and good fortune "with one heart and one voice." Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/28749348
info_outline
Episode 263: Hoes of History: Alma Spreckels
11/16/2023
Episode 263: Hoes of History: Alma Spreckels
Ever wonder where the term "Sugar Daddy" came from? We have Mrs. Alma Spreckels to thank for that. She was married to a man 24 years older than her and he actually owned Spreckels Sugar Company. Born into modest beginnings in 1881, Alma de Bretteville aka Alma Spreckels emerged from the shadows to become a prominent figure in the social and cultural landscape of early 20th-century America. She was known as a risque model because she we pose partially nude. Men would chase her, including Charlie Anderson, a successful miner. After a very brief courtship, she sued him for $50,000 for “breach of promise” to marry her. She won the case and was awarded $1,250. Alma went from small-town girl to the queen of society, exploring her unbridled passion for art, philanthropy, and social justice. As the wife of sugar magnate Adolph Spreckels, Alma played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural identity of San Francisco and beyond. She held legendary gatherings at the Spreckels Mansion, where artists, intellectuals, and influencers of the time converged to celebrate creativity and challenge the status quo. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/28663803
info_outline
Episode 262: Hoes of History: Betty White
11/09/2023
Episode 262: Hoes of History: Betty White
Betty White's story is one for the ages. Born in 1922, she witnessed the rise of the entertainment industry from its earliest days. From her early beginnings in radio to her groundbreaking work on television, Betty's versatility and talent made her a household name. We explore her early days as a model and radio personality, her transition to television, and her numerous hit shows, including "The Golden Girls," where her portrayal of the lovable Rose Nylund endeared her to millions. But Betty's influence extends far beyond her acting career. She was a tireless advocate for animal welfare and a passionate humanitarian, using her platform to raise awareness for countless causes. Her timeless humor and positive outlook on life made her a role model for generations, proving that age is just a number. She has an impressive list of awards and achievements, from her record-breaking Emmy wins to her induction into the Television Hall of Fame. Betty White's wit, charm, and infectious laughter have left an indelible mark on the entertainment world, making her a beloved figure for both young and old. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/28563041
info_outline
Episode 261: Hoes of History: Catherine de' Medici
11/02/2023
Episode 261: Hoes of History: Catherine de' Medici
Catherine de Medici, born in 1519, was a member of the renowned Italian Medici family. Her life took a dramatic turn when she married Henry II of France and became Queen of France in the mid-16th century. Despite her humble beginnings as an Italian noblewoman, Catherine quickly rose to prominence and played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of a nation. We unravel her early years in Italy, where she was exposed to the Renaissance's intellectual and artistic fervor. We then follow her to the French court, where she faced the challenges of a foreign Queen navigating the treacherous waters of the Valois dynasty. Catherine's reign as Queen of France was marked by complex political maneuvering and the enduring influence of the Catholic Church. We discuss her role in the Wars of Religion, a tumultuous period marked by sectarian strife between Catholics and Huguenots (Protestants). Her actions as a devout Catholic regent, at times ruthless and at times compassionate, left an indelible mark on the religious landscape of France. Her indomitable spirit, shrewd political acumen, and remarkable resilience in the face of adversity paint a vivid portrait of a woman who shaped the course of history. Her legacy as a formidable queen, mother, and political strategist continues to captivate scholars and history enthusiasts alike. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/28493042
info_outline
Episode 260: Hoes of History: Clara Barton
10/19/2023
Episode 260: Hoes of History: Clara Barton
Clara Barton was an educator and nurse who assisted soldiers during the American Civil War. She became the founder of the American Red Cross in 1881. She's a remarkable woman whose unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes forever changed the landscape of healthcare, disaster relief, and women's rights in 19th-century America. Clara Barton, known as the "Angel of the Battlefield," is renowned for her pioneering work during the American Civil War. As a nurse, she risked her life to provide medical aid and comfort to wounded soldiers on the front lines. Her tireless efforts to tend to the wounded and dying earned her the respect and admiration of soldiers and commanders alike. But Clara's contributions extended far beyond the battlefield. As we uncover the layers of her life, we'll learn about her tireless work to identify and mark the graves of thousands of Union soldiers, providing solace to grieving families. Her relentless pursuit of missing soldiers and her role in establishing the American Red Cross showcase her lifelong commitment to humanitarian causes. Her life is a testament to the impact one person can make in times of crisis and hardship. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/28362395
info_outline
Episode 259: Hoes of History: Hedy Lamarr
10/12/2023
Episode 259: Hoes of History: Hedy Lamarr
oin us for a captivating journey through the life of the enigmatic Hedy Lamarr, a woman whose beauty was as striking as her intellect. Hedy Lamarr was more than just a silver screen legend. Her journey from a young Austrian actress to a groundbreaking inventor is one of beauty, brilliance, and resilience. We explore the early years of Hedy's career in Vienna, where she caught the eye of industry giants and made her way to Hollywood, becoming one of the most celebrated stars of the 1930s and 1940s. But Hedy's story doesn't stop at her cinematic achievements. We'll uncover her lesser-known role as a brilliant inventor. During World War II, she collaborated with composer George Antheil to develop a groundbreaking invention – a frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology, intended for use in torpedoes. This invention, which laid the foundation for modern wireless communication and GPS systems, was way ahead of its time. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/28295141
info_outline
Episode 258: Hoes of History: Admiral Grace Hopper
10/05/2023
Episode 258: Hoes of History: Admiral Grace Hopper
Known as the "Queen of Code" and the "Mother of COBOL," Grace Hopper left an indelible mark on the world of computer science and the U.S. Navy. Grace Hopper defied societal norms by pursuing a career in mathematics and science at a time when opportunities for women in these fields were scarce. Her unwavering determination led her to become one of the most influential figures in the history of computing. Her groundbreaking work on the Harvard Mark I computer and her pioneering contributions to the development of computer programming languages played a pivotal role in the creation of COBOL, a programming language that transformed the way software was written and continues to impact the technology landscape today. She was even part of the team that made "bug" a regular term in when there's a defect with computer code and the story behind this is hilarious. As a trailblazing woman in the U.S. Navy, Grace Hopper achieved the rank of Rear Admiral, becoming one of the highest-ranking women in the military at the time. We'll uncover her inspiring journey through the Navy, her tireless advocacy for the advancement of women in the armed forces, and her enduring commitment to education and mentorship. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/28230794
info_outline
Episode 257: Hoes of History: Mileva Marić
09/28/2023
Episode 257: Hoes of History: Mileva Marić
Mileva Marić is a brilliant and often overlooked scientist whose contributions to physics remain shrouded in history. Mileva's story is one of talent, determination, and the challenges faced by women in the male-dominated world of science at the turn of the 20th century. She is a woman whose genius was often overshadowed by her famous partner, Albert Einstein. Mileva Marić showed an early aptitude for mathematics and science, defying societal expectations for women of her time. She eventually found herself at the forefront of scientific innovation in Switzerland, where she met a young Albert Einstein. Their partnership and collaboration in both love and science forever changed the landscape of theoretical physics. We explore the complexities of her relationship with Einstein, her role in the development of the theory of relativity, and the challenges she faced as a female physicist in the early 20th century. We discuss the ongoing debate surrounding her contributions to Einstein's work and the importance of recognizing her legacy as a pioneering female scientist. This week Sarah shares a personal story involving an addition overdose. If you are struggling and need help, call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. For substance abuse treatment and mental health referrals, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/28164419
info_outline
Episode 256: Hoes of History: Amy Winehouse
09/21/2023
Episode 256: Hoes of History: Amy Winehouse
Amy Winehouse is one of the most iconic voices in modern music history. Join us as we journey through the highs and lows of her tragically short but profoundly impactful life. Amy Winehouse, a gifted jazz and soul singer-songwriter, captured the hearts of millions with her soulful voice and candid lyrics. Born in North London, Amy's rise to fame was meteoric, earning her critical acclaim and a legion of devoted fans around the world. However, her immense talent was often overshadowed by her very public battles with addiction, mental health issues, and the relentless scrutiny of the media. Discover the woman behind the headlines and explore the enduring legacy of a soulful artist who will never be forgotten. Get your Homance apparel: Follow us on IG: Connect with us: Send us a Hoe of History request:
/episode/index/show/homancechronicles/id/28100027