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.

• 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.

"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

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.

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

• Wilma Rudolph’s 1960 Olympic gold — ESPN
• Biography and Early Life — Biography.com
• Olympic Achievements — Olympics.com
• Impact on Civil Rights and Legacy — TSU Tigerbelles History and Ed Temple Biography

Florence Griffith Joyner (Flo Jo)

• 1988 World Record Performance — Olympics.com
• Post-1984 Career and Marriage — Wikipedia
• Transition from Banking to Full-Time Training — Because of Them We Can
• Style, Fashion Evolution & Cultural Impact — Olympics.com

Sha’Carri Richardson

• 2023 World Championship Victory — World Athletics
• Biography and Rise to Fame — LSU Athletics Profile | Team USA Profile | Britannica
• Suspension and Response — ESPN
• Public Support for Sha’Carri — Revolt TV
• Her Growth and Accountability — People Magazine
• Training with Coach Dennis Mitchell — The Sun

Althea Gibson (bonus historical feature)

• Biography — History.com
• 1957 Wimbledon Final Recap — Tennis.com
• Reflections on Breaking Barriers — African American Collection

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 explores not only Doug Williams’ impact but the long-standing biases Black quarterbacks faced in professional football. We also highlight historical figures like Fritz Pollard and pivotal moments in sports history that paved the way for today's generation of Black quarterbacks.

🔊 Tune in to hear an inspiring story of breaking barriers, defying expectations, and cementing a legacy.

👉 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! 📖 For show notes and resources, visit blackisamericapodcast.com

Episode Highlights & Key Takeaways

• For decades, Black quarterbacks were stereotyped as not "cerebral" enough to lead an NFL team.
• Many Black QBs were forced to switch positions upon entering the league, despite excelling as signal-callers in college.
• Williams shattered this narrative, proving Black quarterbacks could lead and dominate.

• Doug Williams became the first Black quarterback to start a Super Bowl on January 31, 1988.
• He overcame a knee injury in the first quarter to orchestrate a historic comeback.
• Four touchdowns in the second quarter, setting a Super Bowl record.
• Led Washington to a 42-10 victory over the Denver Broncos and was named Super Bowl MVP.

• Despite leading the Buccaneers to multiple playoff appearances, Williams was the lowest-paid starting QB in the NFL.
• His salary was less than that of 12 backup quarterbacks.
• The financial disrespect forced him to leave for the USFL before returning to the NFL with Washington.

• Doug Williams paved the way for future Black quarterbacks like Michael Vick, Patrick Mahomes, and Lamar Jackson.
• The 2024 NFL Draft saw Caleb Williams & Jayden Daniels go 1-2 overall, proving the shift in how Black QBs are valued.
• Today, a record number of Black quarterbacks lead NFL teams, and they are resetting the market with lucrative contracts.

🎙 "They said a Black quarterback could dream of winning a Super Bowl, but could he actually do it? Doug Williams just gave them an answer."

🎙 "Doug Williams didn’t just play the game—he changed it."

🎙 "For decades, the NFL didn’t think Black quarterbacks were good enough. Then Doug Williams happened."

📝 Guest: Coach Kenton Evans, Championship-Winning College Coach📚 Archival & Research Sources: The Washington Post, ESPN, NFL.com, Pro-Football-Reference, The College Football Hall of Fame, The Fritz Pollard Alliance, The New Britain Herald

🎧 Listen & Subscribe: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify: ✅ Website: blackisamericapodcast.com

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Doug Williams’ story is more than football—it’s about resilience, representation, and the breaking of barriers that stood for too long. His legacy continues in every Black quarterback who steps onto the field today.

🔊 Don’t just hear the history—experience it. Subscribe to Black Is America and join us as we tell the stories that shape our world.

🎙️ Welcome Back to Black Is America – Season 4 🎙️ The critically acclaimed, 20x award-winning Black Is America Podcast returns for an exciting new season! This isn’t just another season—it’s a new era. We’re bringing you fresh stories, stunning new cover art by Alexandria Eddings, and the same unwavering commitment to Black excellence, resilience, and innovation.

This season, host Dominic Lawson explores the groundbreaking contributions of Black pioneers who shaped America and the world. From sports journalism to country music, from war heroes to billionaires, these stories demand to be remembered.

🗓️ Season 4 Episode Lineup:

1. Doug Williams: The American Quarterback – February 7, 2025

   • The story of the first Black quarterback to win a Super Bowl and his enduring legacy in the NFL.

2. Wilma, Florence, and Sha’Carri: American Women of Speed – March 10, 2025

   • A celebration of Black women who dominated the track and field world, featuring a special guest Olympic gold medalist.

3. Garrett A. Morgan: The American Inventor – April 14, 2025

   • Exploring the brilliant mind behind life-saving inventions like the gas mask and the traffic signal.

4. Sgt. William Carney: The American Hero Who Never Let Go – May 26, 2025 (Memorial Day)

   • Honoring the first Black recipient of the Medal of Honor and his heroic act of carrying the American flag through battle during the Civil War.

5. Reclaiming Country: From Banjos to Beyoncé – June 16, 2025

   • A deep dive into the Black roots of country music, featuring Jay Ray and Sir Daniel from Queue Points Podcast and award-winning producer Big Mike.

6. Reginald F. Lewis: The American Billionaire – July 17, 2025

   • The inspiring journey of the first Black billionaire, featuring a personal story about Dominic's Uncle Mel, who gifted him Lewis' book Why Should White Guys Have All the Fun?

7. Stuart Scott: The American Sportscaster – August 11, 2025

   • A tribute to the late, great Stuart Scott, who revolutionized sports media with his unique style and cultural impact.

8. The Wayans: First Family of American Comedy – September 30, 2025 (International Podcast Day)

   • A look at the legendary Wayans family and their comedic empire that reshaped Hollywood.

💜 A Special Dedication This season is dedicated to Dominic’s beloved uncle, Melvin Stewart, who passed away on September 28, 2024. Uncle Mel believed deeply in Black excellence, self-sufficiency, and education, and he played a pivotal role in inspiring the Black Is America Podcast.

🔊 Sneak Peek! Before we dive into the full season, enjoy the first two minutes of our upcoming episode, Garrett A. Morgan: The American Inventor.

💬 Subscribe and Stay Connected Don’t miss a single episode—subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! And remember, our history isn’t just Black history; it’s American history.

📢 Join the Conversation:

• Website: www.blackisamericapodcast.com
• 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.

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 throughout military history. Drawing parallels to historical figures like John Horse and the Black Seminoles, Lawson provides a rich, contextual narrative that honors the legacy of African-American soldiers.

Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, Alwyn Cashe’s legacy is a testament to the valor and sacrifice of black soldiers. Join us as we celebrate his life, his heroism, and the lasting impact he has made on military history.

Episode Breakdown:

Introduction: The episode opens on a moonlit night on October 17, 2005, in the Aladin province of Iraq. Sergeant First Class Alwyn Cashe is on patrol with his unit when their Bradley fighting vehicle is struck by an IED, igniting a series of events that would define Cashe’s legacy as an American hero.

Background: Listeners are taken through Cashe’s early life in Oviedo, Florida, where he grew up as the youngest of ten siblings. Despite humble beginnings, Cashe’s dedication and adventurous spirit led him to enlist in the United States Army in 1988. His military career spans multiple conflicts, including Operation Desert Storm, where he honed his leadership skills and built a reputation for courage under fire.

The Heroic Incident: The heart of the episode details the harrowing incident where Cashe’s vehicle is hit by an IED. Despite being drenched in fuel and engulfed in flames, Cashe selflessly rescues his fellow soldiers, displaying unmatched bravery. His actions on that night, pulling each soldier from the burning vehicle while under enemy fire, highlight his extraordinary heroism and dedication.

Reflection and Legacy: The narrative reflects on the significant role of black non-commissioned officers in the military, drawing parallels between Cashe’s actions and the historical bravery of figures like John Horse and the Black Seminoles. Personal anecdotes and historical context enrich the story, emphasizing the profound impact of African-American soldiers in shaping military history.

Recognition and Honors: The episode concludes with a tribute to Cashe’s legacy, detailing the posthumous awards and recognitions he received, including the Medal of Honor. The story of Cashe's heroism continues to inspire, and his legacy is honored through various dedications, including military facilities and community spaces named in his memory.

That time Daniel "Chappie" James had to let Moammar Gadhafi know what was up

Sources for this episode include The United States Army, The Department of Defense, The White House, the Center for Disease Control, the program 60 Minutes courtesy of CBS News, C-Span, ABC 10 Sacramento, Dr. Amy Sturgis of Lenoir-Rhyne University in collaboration with Learn Liberty, The Washington Post, The Atlanta-Journal Constitution, The Los Angles Times The Orlando Sentinel, and the Honolulu Star Advertiser.

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 Her Brand

• Opened successful dress salon in Tampa, FL from 1919-1928

• Saved $20,000 to move to Harlem, NYC during the Renaissance

• Quickly built clientele among NYC elites and socialites

• Designed Olivia de Havilland's Oscars dress in 1947

• Peak Years

• Client list included Rockefellers, Roosevelts, duPonts and more

• Hired to design 1953 wedding dress for Jacqueline Kennedy

• Water pipe disaster destroyed original dress 10 days before wedding

• Remade it in 5 days with help of employees and community

• Late Career Struggles

• Focused more on artistry than business side, fell into debt

• Wealthy clients anonymously paid off $13k in back taxes she owed

• Died in 1981 at age 82 after inspiring new generation of designers

Key Quote: "I love my clothes and I'm not interested in sewing for café society or social climbers. I sew for the families of the Social Register." - Anne Lowe

Impact: Lowe's elegant designs broke racial barriers in high fashion. She paved the way for future Black designers through her perseverance and excellence.

Subscribe, review & learn more at www.blackisamericapodcast.com

The Black Is America podcast, a presentation of OWLS Education Company, was created and is written, researched, and produced by Dominic Lawson.

Executive Producer Kenda Lawson

Cover art was created by Alexandria Eddings of Art Life Connections. 

Sources to create this episode include Ebony Magazine, The Saturday Evening Post, The JFK Library, The Academy, C-Span, History.com, and  Blackpast.com 

Special thanks to fashion designer Ayeshia Smith of Ayeshia.com. Follow her on IG at Ayeshia.appareal

Also pecial thanks to Elizabeth Way, Associate Museum curator at the Fashion Institute of Technology. 

Special thanks to first Chutney Young for suggesting Ann Lowe as a topic.

And lastly thank you Lisa Woolfork, founder of Black Women Stich and host of the Stitch Please Podcast. We collaborated with her on this espisode and she introduced us to Elizabeth Way. Follow on IG At Black Women Stitch.  

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 Force, became a pilot, and flew combat missions during the Vietnam War, further fueling his passion for aerospace.

Becoming an Astronaut

- In the late 1970s, Bluford was selected for NASA's astronaut training program along with other African Americans like Ron McNair and Fred Gregory.

- This was part of the first class of Space Shuttle astronauts as NASA prepared to launch a new era of spaceflight.

Making History in Space

- On August 30, 1983, Bluford launched into space aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger, becoming the first African American astronaut in space.

- Original Tuskegee Airmen and other African American aviation pioneers attended the launch in recognition of Bluford's achievement.

- Bluford flew a total of four Space Shuttle missions between 1983 and 1992, logging nearly 700 hours spent in space.

Inspiring Future Generations

- Bluford's accomplishment built on the struggles of earlier pioneers like Ed Dwight Jr. and inspired future African Americans to pursue careers in the space program.

- After retiring from NASA, Bluford remained committed to encouraging youth, especially minorities, to pursue STEM careers. 

- His pioneering journey from Philadelphia to the cosmos opened doors for future African American astronauts, scientists, and engineers.

Conclusion

- In conclusion, Guy Bluford broke barriers as the first African American in space, both symbolically and literally reaching new heights. 

• His achievement highlighted the perseverance and talent within the African American community and paved the way for greater diversity in space exploration.

The Black Is America podcast, a presentation of OWLS Education, was created and is written, researched, and produced by Dominic Lawson.

Executive Producer Kenda Lawson

Cover art was created by Alexandria Eddings of Art Life Connections. 

Sources to create this episode include NASA.gov,History.com’s program Military Heroes,The New York Times,The History Makers.org,The International SciEd Center and Space Museum in Hutchinson Kansas,The Television Academy Foundation, Arcfireld Weather,ABC News, Smithsonian Magazine, and CBS News.   

A preview of season 3

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, marking the first African-American woman from the South to serve in the House of Representatives. Key highlights include her impactful role in President Nixon's impeachment proceedings. Her notable speech at the DNC convention two years later is also discussed, which further increased her prominence and set out a new vision for America.

Part 3: The final part brings attention to Jordan's legacy, especially her impact on subsequent generations of politicians and public figures. Despite challenges, Jordan continued to advocate for an America true to its principles. The episode closes with a reflection on the progress made since Jordan's time and the importance of remembering and honoring her contributions.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction and Early Life of Barbara Jordan
• Barbara Jordan's Political Career
• Barbara Jordan's Role in Nixon's Impeachment
• Barbara Jordan's Speech at the 1976 DNC Convention
• Impact and Legacy of Barbara Jordan
• Reflection on the Progress Made

Credits: Created, written, researched, and produced by Dominic Lawson. Executive producer is Kenda Lawson. Cover art by Alexandria Eddings of Art Life Connections.

Resources: The New York Times, CBS News, U.S. House of Representatives Archives and the Texas Southern University Barbara Jordan Archives.

Connect: Subscribe to the Black Is America Podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. For a full transcript of this episode and other resources, visit www.blackisamericapodcast.com.

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. Lastly, we explore the recognition he received and the ultimate sacrifice he made aboard the USS Liscome Bay. We also introduce you to Charles Jackson French and his heroic actions aboard the USS Gregory during the attack. There's also the exploration of a "what if" scenario with Jackie Robinson at Pearl Harbor (yep, he was there too!)

This Memorial Day, we pay tribute to Dorie Miller's unwavering courage and honor his legacy as an American defender. Join us for this powerful and enlightening episode of the Black Is America podcast.

More information on what happened to Jesse Washington

The Black Is America podcast, a presentation of OWLS Education, was created and is written, researched, and produced by Dominic Lawson.

Executive Producer: Kenda Lawson

Cover art was created by Alexandria Eddings of Art Life Connections. 

Sources to create this episode include Naval History and Heritage Command, CBS News, Infographics Show, ESPN’s Down and Distance Podcast with Ivan Maisel,  the Brookings Institute, Waco History.com

Scenes from the movie Peal Harbor are courtesy of Touchstone Films and Jerry Bruckheimer Films and is distributed by Buena Vista Pictures.

Be sure to Like, review and subscribe to the Black Is America Podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, where ever you like to listen to podcasts. Also, let people know about the podcast, we would appreciate that very much. 

For a full transcript of this episode and other resources, go to www.blackisamericapodcast.com. There you can read our blog, leave us a review, or you can leave a voicemail where you can ask a question or let us know what you think about the show that we may play in an episode. 

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 first American hero of World War I and a member of the all-black 369th Infantry Regiment, known as the Harlem Hellfighters.
• Johnson's bravery and battle sacrifice helped establish the United States as a military superpower.
• Despite facing racism and discrimination at home, Johnson and his fellow soldiers fought courageously for their country.
• Johnson was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 2015, and efforts are underway to rename a military base in his honor.
• The story of Sergeant Henry Johnson and the Harlem Hellfighters is an important part of African American and United States history.

Show Notes:

• Background on the 369th Infantry Regiment and the Harlem Hellfighters
• Discussion of racism and discrimination faced by African American soldiers during World War I
• Detailed account of Sergeant Henry Johnson's bravery in battle and the many injuries sustained while defending his fellow soldiers
• Discussion of the posthumous honors and awards given to Johnson, including the Medal of Honor and the Purple Heart
• Information on efforts to rename a military base in honor of Johnson and the Harlem Hellfighters
• Analysis of the question of why African Americans continue to fight for a country that does not always love them back
• Quotes from Johnson and other African American leaders
• Conclusion and call to action for listeners to support the Black Is America Podcast and continue learning about important moments in African American history.

Zimmermann Telegram | Facts, Text, & Outcome | Britannica

Sources:

• White house.gov
• History.com
• Smithsonian Magazine
• The Department of Defense
• The National Museum of African American History and Culture
• The National Archives
• CSPAN

Website: www.blackisamericapodcast.com