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Wilma, Florence, and Sha’Carri: American Women of Speed

Black Is America

Release Date: 03/18/2025

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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, and Sha’Carri’s public redemption arc, this episode is a masterclass in perseverance and Black excellence.

Tune in to uncover why for Black women, speed isn’t just about winning — it’s about being seen, celebrated, and rewriting history.

Episode Highlights & Key Takeaways:

  • Wilma Rudolph’s journey: From polio-stricken childhood to becoming the fastest woman in the world at the 1960 Rome Olympics.
  • Florence Griffith Joyner’s style and speed: How Flo Jo combined athletic dominance with unapologetic beauty and cultural impact, redefining what a champion could look like.
  • Sha’Carri Richardson’s redemption story: How the sprinter’s suspension became a national conversation on grace, resilience, and how Black women are held to impossible standards — and how she roared back stronger.
  • The power of representation and freedom: Olympic gold medalist Moushaumi Robinson reflects on seeing Flo Jo as a child and how that vision of beauty and freedom inspired generations.
  • Black women in business and politics: How Black women continue to break records not just on the track, but as entrepreneurs, educators, and changemakers.
  • Historical context and cinematic storytelling: A non-linear journey through the stories of these women, enriched with sound design, Olympic archives, and historical parallels.
  • The ongoing conversation around protecting and celebrating Black women: From Sandra Bland to Breonna Taylor, the episode challenges listeners to see victories without footnotes and to honor Black women’s humanity and excellence fully.

Notable Soundbites & Quotes from the Episode:

"Speed is not just about moving fast — it's freedom." — Moushaumi Robinson

"Black women don’t just show up. They show out." — Dominic Lawson

"It's always the first, but rarely the celebration." — Moushaumi Robinson

"Sha’Carri’s suspension wasn’t just about track; it was about who gets grace and who doesn’t." — Dominic Lawson

"Black women mold adversity into strength — on the track, in boardrooms, and in Congress." — Dominic Lawson

Final Thoughts

This episode is a moving tribute to the legacy of Black women who run not just to win, but to inspire, break barriers, and push the world forward. Through Wilma, Flo Jo, and Sha’Carri, we’re reminded that speed is more than physical — it’s a spiritual declaration of freedom and resilience.

Special Thanks & Resources

Sources for this episode include:

  • ESPN — Coverage on Wilma Rudolph’s 1960 Olympic gold and Sha’Carri Richardson’s suspension and athletic milestones.
  • Olympics.com — Official records and profiles for Florence Griffith Joyner’s 1988 world record, Olympic career, and lasting impact.
  • The Los Angeles Times — Archival coverage of Florence Griffith Joyner’s early career, youth competitions, and rise from local athlete to global icon.
  • History.com — Biography of Althea Gibson and her trailblazing legacy in tennis.
  • Biography.com — Detailed biographies of Wilma Rudolph and Florence Griffith Joyner, highlighting early life, challenges, and triumphs.
  • Tennis.com — Historical coverage of Althea Gibson’s 1957 Wimbledon championship and her impact on the sport.
  • LSU Athletics — Profile and collegiate highlights of Sha’Carri Richardson’s record-breaking performances.
  • TeamUSA.com — Official athlete biography and milestones for Sha’Carri Richardson.
  • AfricanAmericanCollection.com — Reflections and archival insights on Althea Gibson’s career and legacy.
  • WorldAthletics.com — Coverage of Sha’Carri Richardson’s 2023 World Championship victory and global athletic rankings.

Wilma Rudolph

Florence Griffith Joyner (Flo Jo)

Sha’Carri Richardson

Althea Gibson (bonus historical feature)