Wilma, Florence, and Sha’Carri: American Women of Speed
Black Is America
Episode Description: In this inspiring episode of Black Is America, host Dominic Lawson takes us on a cinematic, time-traveling journey through the lives of three iconic Black women whose speed transcended the track: Wilma Rudolph, Florence Griffith Joyner (Flo Jo), and Sha’Carri Richardson. Joined by Olympic gold medalist Moushaumi Robinson, Dominic explores how each of these women didn’t just run — they defied societal expectations, symbolizing freedom, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of Black womanhood. From Wilma’s battle with polio to Flo Jo’s fashion-forward domination,...
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Doug Williams: The American Quarterback
Black Is America
In this episode of Black Is America, we highlight the groundbreaking journey of Doug Williams, the first Black quarterback to start and win a Super Bowl. From his early days in Zachary, Louisiana, to Grambling State under legendary coach Eddie Robinson, to breaking barriers in the NFL, Williams' career is a testament to resilience, intelligence, and excellence. But Williams' path was anything but easy. Systemic racism, underestimation, and financial disparity sought to hold him back. Yet, he persevered, ultimately delivering one of the greatest performances in Super Bowl history. This episode...
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Black Is America Season 4: A New Era Begins
Black Is America
Social Media: Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Leave a Review: Help us continue to bring these important stories to life. Black Is America – Where Our History Comes to Life. New episodes drop monthly starting February 7, 2025.
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Alwyn C. Cashe: The American Sergeant
Black Is America
In this episode of Black is America podcast, delve into the inspiring story of Sergeant First Class Alwyn Cashe, a remarkable African-American hero of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Host Dominic Lawson narrates the gripping account of Cashe’s selfless bravery on a fateful night in October 2005. Learn about his early life in Oviedo, Florida, his distinguished military career, and the extraordinary courage he displayed when his unit was attacked by an IED. This episode not only highlights Cashe’s heroic actions but also explores the significant contributions of black non-commissioned officers...
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Ann Lowe: An American Original
Black Is America
This episode explores the life and career of Anne Lowe, a pioneering African American fashion designer who dressed high society elites in the early to mid 20th century. We learn about her early life in Alabama, training in New York, moving to Harlem during the Renaissance, and most famously designing Jacqueline Kennedy's wedding dress. Timeline: Early Life & Training Born in Clayton, AL in 1898 Learned sewing from her mother and grandmother Moved to NYC in 1917 to formally train at S.T. Taylor Design School Segregated at school but still excelled and finished early Building...
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Guion Bluford: The American Astronaut
Black Is America
This episode of the Black is America podcast tells the story of Guy Bluford, the first African American astronaut in space. We'll explore his early life and inspirations, his path to NASA, the historical significance of his achievement, and his spaceflights. Guy Bluford's Upbringing and Early Inspiration - Guy Bluford was born in 1942 in Philadelphia, PA and became fascinated with aviation and engineering from a young age. - He was inspired by the Tuskegee Airmen and other pioneering African American aviators who were breaking barriers in the 1940s and 50s. - Bluford joined the Air...
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Black Is America: The Final Chapter
Black Is America
A preview of season 3
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Barbara Jordan: The Protector of American Democracy
Black Is America
This special Juneteenth episode of the Black Is America podcast delves into the life and legacy of Barbara Jordan, an American lawyer, educator, and politician who was a leading force in the Democratic Party. Known as a "Protector of American Democracy," Jordan left an indelible mark on American history. Part 1: The episode begins with an introduction to Barbara Jordan, a trailblazer born and raised in Houston, Texas. Her early life, educational pursuits, and initial political career are examined. Part 2: The second part dives deeper into Jordan's historic term as a U.S. Congresswoman,...
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Doris Miller: The American Defender
Black Is America
In this special Memorial Day presentation of the Black Is America podcast, we explore the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Doris "Dorie" Miller. From his humble beginnings in Waco, Texas, to his decision to join the Navy during a time of racial segregation, Dorie's story captivates and inspires. We first set the stage for his extraordinary path. Next, we delve into the events leading up to World War II and examine the impact of his choices. Then we highlight his heroic actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor, showcasing his bravery and resilience in the face of adversity....
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Henry Johnson: The First American Hero of World War I
Black Is America
In the #BlackHistoryMonthFinale, host Dominic Lawson tells the inspiring story of Sergeant Henry Johnson, the first American hero of World War I. Johnson was a member of the 369th Infantry Regiment, an all-black unit known as the Harlem Hellfighters, and his bravery and sacrifice in battle helped to establish the United States as a military superpower firmly. Despite facing racism and discrimination at home, Johnson and his fellow soldiers fought courageously for their country and paved the way for future generations of African American soldiers. Key Points: Sergeant Henry Johnson was the...
info_outlineIn this episode, you will hear:
- Why Ledger Smith went to the March On Washington on roller skates
- Why Dr. King thought it was essential for Civil Rights to desegregate places of leisure
- Ledger Smith route from Chicago to Washington DC
- Why media was essential to the Civil Rights movement
- More about an unlikely ally in the Civil Rights movement
- The Children's March and Kelly Ingram park
Notable figures mentioned in this episode:
Martin Luther King Jr.
John Lewis
Mamie Chalmers
Bayard Rustin
A.G. Gaston
A. Phillip Randolph
President John F. Kennedy
Attorney General Robert Kennedy
President Barack Obama
The Black Is America podcast, a presentation of OWLS Education, was created and is written, researched, and produced by me, Dominic Lawson.
Executive Producer Kenda Lawson
Cover art was created by Alexandria Eddings of Art Life Connections. Credit for this episode's cover art: The Baltimore Afro American
Sources to create this episode come from The National Civil Rights Museum, History.com, The New York Times, The Baltimore Afro American, The National Museum of African American History & Culture, WAMU National Public Radio in DC
Scenes from United Skates are courtesy of Vice and HBO Documentary Films, a Warner Brothers Discovery Company.
Mamie Chalmers audio courtesy of Comcast NBCUniversal's Voices of the Civil Rights Movement
David Vann and A.G. Gaston audio courtesy of the Youtube Channel curated by Geoff Hiron (Note: The host could not locate the original source of audio)
"Beat It" is written and performed by Michael Jackson and produced by Michael Jackson & Quincy Jones for Epic Records.
"I'm On My Way" performed by Mamie Brown & Choir from "Lest We Forget, Vol. 2: Birmingham, Alabama, 1963 - Mass Meeting" from Smithsonian Folkways Recordings.
Audio of Martin Luther King Jr. courtesy of Martin Luther King Jr Research and Education Institute at Stanford University
Audio of John Lewis courtesy of the National Archives
Audio of President Barack Obama courtesy of BBC News
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For a full transcript of this episode and other resources, go to www.blackisamericapodcast.com. You can read our blog, leave us a review, or leave a voicemail where you can ask a question or let us know what you think about the show we may play in an episode. You can also hit the donation button if you like what you heard, which helps us to create more educational content like this.