When most people think of first ladies who were activists, they look to women like Eleanor Roosevelt, Laura Bush, and Michelle Obama. But, women like Florence Harding, Nellie Taft, and Ellen Wilson warrant greater attention for how they challenged the status quo. We spoke with Dr. Katherine Sibley, author of First Lady Florence Harding: Behind the Tragedy and Controversy about how the early 20th century first ladies paved the way for those to follow.

Ep. 2 Hollywood and Florence Harding's Legacy

There is so much more to the elite sorority of first ladies than fashion and state dinners, and that is what Ladies, First and its lineup of guest experts will explore. This podcast will take an informative and entertaining look at our first ladies’ legacies and how their leadership has shaped our nation and the international community.

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The media loved airing Julia Gardiner Tyler’s dirty laundry and after leaving the White House she fought to reclaim her title of first lady. Dr. Christopher Leahy and his wife and fellow historian, Sharon Williams Leahy, spoke with us about one of America’s most vivacious and strong-minded first ladies.

Ep. 11 The Controversies of Julia Gardiner Tyler

Sir Winston Churchill remains one of the most well-known world leaders, but few realize the impact his wife had on his political career. Clementine Churchill both tamed and empowered the “British Bulldog”. We spoke with Sonia Purnell, author of Clementine: The Life of Mrs. Winston Churchill, to understand Clementine’s leadership and legacy.

Ep. 10 Clementine Churchill: The Woman Behind the “British Bulldog”

Barbara Bush’s dedication to faith, family, and friends captured the hearts of Americans. We sat down for a conversation with her daughter, Doro Bush Koch, to celebrate a first lady and family matriarch who had an unwavering devotion to the United States and a commitment to service over self.

Ep. 9 Service Above Self– The Leadership of Barbara Bush

When Frances Clara Folsom married President Stephen Grover Cleveland on June 2nd, 1886, the media descended upon Washington. Frances garnered attention and scrutiny that no first family had seen before. A few years later, Edith Roosevelt, with six-children in tow, drew the line between her private and public life. We chatted with White House Historical Association Senior Historian Dr. Matthew Costello to understand the evolution of public intrigue around first spouses.

Ep. 8 The Celebrity Status of a First Lady

Bridging political divides, Dolley Madison and her fellow political spouses taught our politicians a thing or two about civility, manners, and the art of conversation. We chatted with Massachusetts Historical Society President Dr. Catherine Allgor about our early first ladies, in particular, Dolley Madison. 

Ep. 2 Hollywood and Florence Harding's Legacy

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