Time Tellers

Legacy of Madam C.J. Walker

Discover the compelling journey of Madam C.J. Walker, a pioneer who reshaped the beauty industry and became America's first self-made female millionaire. Born to formerly enslaved parents in 1867, she transformed personal adversity into groundbreaking success, revolutionizing Black hair care with her "Walker system." Walker was more than a business mogul; she was a fierce advocate for civil rights and philanthropy, supporting African American education and empowerment initiatives. Join us as we explore her remarkable impact, from training thousands of women for economic independence to championing racial and gender equality. Experience the inspiring life and enduring legacy of a woman whose story is as relevant today as it was over a century ago.

Radiant Shadows: The Legacy of Madame Curie and the Radium Girls

Welcome to a captivating episode of Time Tellers, where the echoes of history speak to us with profound lessons. Join us as we embark on a gripping journey through time, exploring the illustrious yet tragic legacy of Madame Marie Curie, a trailblazer in the world of science. From her humble beginnings amidst political oppression in Poland to her groundbreaking discoveries in Paris, Marie Curie's tale is one of resilience, determination, and scientific brilliance.
Venture into the shadows cast by Curie's pioneering work, as we unravel the story of the Radium Girls. A poignant chapter in history where the allure of scientific advancement turned into a tragic narrative for young women in America. As radium's glow captivated the world, its deadly embrace left a lasting mark on those unaware of its fatal consequences. Through powerful storytelling and vivid reenactments, this episode delves deep into the heart of a historical saga that intertwines human ambition with cautionary tales of ethical responsibility.
Intrigue, innovation, and introspection await as we reflect on the legacy left by Marie Curie and the Radium Girls. A compelling narrative that serves as both an homage to scientific courage and a stark reminder of the price of unchecked progress, echoing through history as a tale that must be told. Tune in to Time Tellers, and let the whispers of the past illuminate your present.

Sojourner Truth: the voice of freedom and equality

Join us in unraveling the compelling story of Sojourner Truth, a woman who transformed her harrowing experiences into relentless advocacy for justice and equality. Born into slavery in 1797, Isabella Bonfrey's life was marred by hardship and resilience. Witness her extraordinary journey from oppression to liberation as she became Sojourner Truth, one of the most compelling orators of her time, dedicated to abolishing slavery and advancing women’s rights.
Explore the power of her speeches, including the iconic “Ain’t I a Woman?” and her unwavering fight against both racial and gender injustices. Follow her profound influence on prominent abolitionists and women's rights activists of her era. As we delve into Truth’s activism post-Civil War, we uncover the foundation she laid for civil rights movements that followed, portraying a vivid picture of her life as a testament to courage and the relentless pursuit of justice.
Today, her voice continues to resonate, inspiring generations to demand dignity, equality, and freedom for all. Discover the enduring legacy of Sojourner Truth and how her life’s work remains a beacon for those battling against the intertwined evils of racism and sexism.

St. Patrick's Day a history

Join "Time Tellers" with hosts Renee and Dan as they delve into the captivating origins of St. Patrick's Day, tracing its evolution from a solemn religious observance to a vibrant global celebration. Discover the intriguing story of Mywin Suckett, later known as St. Patrick, who, seized by pirates and sold into slavery, found faith among the lush landscapes of Ireland. After a daring escape inspired by prophetic dreams, he returned to his captors' land as a missionary, shaping the cultural and spiritual fabric of the Emerald Isle.
Venture into the rich tapestry of history weaving Irish heritage with American festivities, where shamrocks symbolize unity and resilience. Lucid storytelling unveils how March 17th parades, ignited by the Irish diaspora's spirit, transformed cities like Chicago, New York, and Savannah into vibrant green havens. Meet legendary leprechauns, evolved from mischievous shoemakers to icons guarding mythical gold, and learn how centuries-old folktales transcend into fun-filled celebrations.
Perfect for listeners seeking enchanting narratives, this episode illuminates St. Patrick’s Day's transcendent journey, connecting past traditions with contemporary joy. Whether you're savoring soda bread or dodging a leprechaun’s mischief, "Time Tellers" invites you to experience the holiday's storied legacy through compelling dialogues, echoing the essence of perseverance and cultural pride.

Abigail Adams: the voice of independence and equality

Step into the captivating world of Abigail Adams, an extraordinary woman who rose beyond her roles as the wife of President John Adams and mother to President John Quincy Adams to become a staunch advocate for women's rights and equality. In this episode of Time Tellers, we delve into Abigail's early life in Weymouth, Massachusetts, where the lack of formal education for women didn't deter her pursuit of knowledge and intellectual growth. Educating herself through her father's expansive library, Abigail's quest for learning shaped her into a formidable thinker of her time.
As we journey through her life, we uncover her instrumental role in supporting her husband during the American Revolution. Her insightful letters, advocacy for the abolition of slavery, and passionate plea to "remember the ladies" have cemented her legacy as an early crusader for gender equality and civil rights. Join us as we explore Abigail Adams' enduring influence on her son John Quincy Adams, her contributions during her tenure as the first First Lady to reside in the White House, and her indelible mark on American history.
Discover the compelling story of a woman whose wisdom, resilience, and advocacy continue to echo across centuries, inspiring generations to strive for a more equitable future. Abigail Adams remains a powerful emblem of female intelligence and courage, shaping the very fabric of the nation she's remembered to have served so honorably.

Breaking the news: women in journalism

Welcome to Time Tellers, where we journey through the compelling history of women in journalism. In this episode, we explore how these trailblazing women broke through the male-dominated profession to tell the stories that shaped the world. From Nellie Bly's daring undercover investigations to Ida B. Wells’ fearless reporting on racial injustice, the impact of these pioneering journalists is undeniable. Get inspired by the stories of women who refused to be sidelined by societal norms, like Sara Emma Edmonds and Dorothy Lawrence, and how their courage paved the way for future generations. Discover how Eleanor Roosevelt revolutionized female journalists' access to political power, and see how modern reporters like Christiane Amanpour continue to break boundaries in war reporting.As we celebrate their achievements, remember that while progress has been made, the fight for equality in journalism is ongoing. Tune in for a narrative that promises to engage and enlighten, echoing the voices of courageous women who have reshaped the world of reportage.

Frances Perkins

Discover the captivating story of Frances Perkins, the pioneering woman who reshaped America's labor landscape. As the first female member of a U.S. Cabinet, Perkins was a driving force behind the New Deal, implementing crucial social and labor reforms during the Great Depression. Her journey began in Boston, where she was raised in a culture that championed hard work and service, eventually leading her to become a vital voice for workers' rights in New York.
Witness Perkins' transformation after experiencing the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire, which solidified her determination to pursue labor reform. Her relentless advocacy led to her appointment by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as Secretary of Labor, where she fought for Social Security, Fair Labor Standards, and the creation of the Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Progress Administration.
Despite facing sexism and personal challenges, Perkins' unwavering commitment to justice and equality left a profound impact on American society. Her legacy of labor rights and social welfare continues to resonate today, inspiring future generations to champion positive change.

The Hidden Figures Who Transformed NASA

Join us on this riveting episode of Time Tellers as we uncover the untold stories of three remarkable African-American women whose brilliance and determination were instrumental in shaping NASA's early space missions. Discover how Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn, and Mary Jackson, known as human computers, defied the societal norms of the 1960s to make space travel a reality. Their inspiring journey from segregation to space exploration will captivate and inspire you.Delve into the historical backdrop of America's race to space and the civil rights challenges these women faced. Through the lens of Margot Lee Shatterley's book Hidden Figures and historical insights, witness their pivotal roles in ensuring the success of missions like John Glenn's orbital flight. We'll also explore how their extraordinary contributions laid the groundwork for the iconic Apollo moon landing, against the backdrop of a nation striving for progress in both technology and civil rights.This episode is not only a tribute to these unsung heroines but also a celebration of their resilience and the legacy they left for future generations of scientists and engineers. Their stories, once shrouded in obscurity, now serve as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the power of perseverance and the quest for equality.

The Underground Railroad

Join Renee and Dan on a captivating journey through one of the most daring and ingenious networks in American history: the Underground Railroad. In this episode of Timetellers, we delve into the incredible stories of unsung heroes whose persistent pursuit of freedom reshaped the landscape of a nation divided by slavery.
Uncover the harrowing tales of those who risked everything to aid the escape of enslaved individuals, from the fearless conductors like Harriet Tubman and John Parker to abolitionists who tirelessly fought against oppression. Renee and Dan shine a light on the covert routes and hidden safe houses that formed a path to liberty, and honor the brave men, women, and families who defied law and society to reach freedom.
Explore the lasting impacts of the Underground Railroad as we discuss its influence on modern social justice movements, demonstrating that the spirit of resistance and resilience continues to inspire today’s fight against injustice. Tune in to discover how the Underground Railroad's legacy lives on, offering a powerful narrative of courage and hope.

The Tuskegee Airmen

Join us on a journey through history as we uncover the riveting tale of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first Black military aviators in the United States Army Air Corps. Breaking barriers both in the skies and on the ground, these brave men not only soared against the Axis powers during World War II, but they also waged a battle against racial discrimination, challenging the prejudices of their time.In this episode, we dive into their incredible journey from the rigorous training fields of Alabama to the treacherous combat zones of World War II. Discover how Eleanor Roosevelt, with her visionary endorsement, helped pave the way for their success, and hear tales of bravery as they protected bomber squadrons with unmatched prowess, earning their legendary "Red Tails" nickname.Through political battles and profound acts of defiance, the Tuskegee Airmen left an indelible mark in history, influencing President Truman's landmark decision to desegregate the U.S. Armed Forces. Their legacy catalyzed change and paved the starlit skies of opportunity for generations to come. Listen as we honor their stories, achievements, and the pivotal role they played in shaping the future of equality in the military and beyond.