Black Is America

Feb 29 2024 8

Black Is America Podcast artwork

The Black Is America podcast highlights little-known African American figures who helped write the story of America. Join us as we shed new light on lost chapters in our nation's history. Hear the amazing, inspiring accounts of black American inventors, heroes, scientists, entrepreneurs and so much more. While racism is a common theme, it is not the central theme. These stories focus instead on what black people have contributed in spite of it, and the impact of those contributions shows clearly that African American History is American History.

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Ann Lowe: An American Original

Feb 29 2024 47 mins

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 C

Guion Bluford: The American Astronaut

Feb 14 2024 38 mins

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

Black Is America: The Final Chapter

Jan 17 2024 12 mins

A preview of season 3

Barbara Jordan: The Protector of American Democracy

Jun 19 2023 25 mins

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 trailblaz

Doris Miller: The American Defender

May 29 2023 41 mins

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 ev

Henry Johnson: The First American Hero of World War I

Feb 28 2023 41 mins

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

Sylvia Robinson: The Godmother Of Hip Hop

Feb 01 2023 32 mins

Introduction: In this episode, we delve into the life and legacy of Sylvia Robinson, the music executive and producer who brought hip hop to the masses and changed the music landscape forever. Sylvia was the founder of Sugar Hill Records and was responsible for producing some of the biggest hip hop hits of all time. Segment 1: Ed Anderson, a DJ at the station, was asked to play th

Welcome Back To Black Is America (Season 2 Preview)

Dec 07 2022 11 mins

The award-winning podcast returns with all-new stories of great African Americans. In this preview, we share audience reviews and how the show faired during award season. We also share the opening for the season 2 premiere of Doris Miller: The American Defender. Lastly, we pay tribute to civil rights legend and historian Carl Westmoreland. Season 2 of the Black Is America podcas

Tom Lee: The Everyday American Hero

Sep 30 2022 42 mins

In the season one finale of Black Is America, we share the story of Tom Lee. On May 8, 1925, when the M.E. Norman steamer suffered a catastrophic failure, Tom Lee saved thirty-two people from the Mississippi River. Fellow Memphian and historian Terri Stephens comes along for the ride to tell the tale of the humble hero. In this episode, you will hear: Why was Tom Lee on the riv

Ledger Smith: Rolling Towards Freedom

Aug 22 2022 28 mins

In August 1963, people traveled far and wide to Washington DC to advocate for civil rights. They took planes, trains, and automobiles. However, one man traveled there in a different way. To commemorate the 59th anniversary of the March on Washington For Jobs and Freedom, we lace up our skates to tell the story of Ledger “Roller Man” Smith and his almost 700-mile journey to W