Listen, Ladies

If you thought the movie Contact was all sci-fi fantasy, think again! In this episode, Julia and Maryalice talk to a top notch science journalist about the real-life pioneer that was the inspiration for Jodie Foster's character in the 1997 film. Sarah Scoles has a new book all about that inspiring astronomer, Jill Tarter, and the challenges she faced as she broke new ground in her field, much of which is still relevant today. Plus, Sarah tells us what to expect as we get closer to the much-anticipated solar eclipse!

Julia and Maryalice talk to Zoe LePage, the founder of Exhale to Inhale. What started as a college project and a hunch about the profound effects of yoga, has expanded to a growing organization committed to bringing yoga classes to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Also, a discussion about Amelia Earhart standing up to The New York Times, and an interactive chatter involving artwork on demand.

Maryalice and Julia talk to Nicole Dennis-Benn about her debut novel, Here Comes the Sun. The book follows the lives of a mother and her two daughters in Montego Bay, Jamaica and exposes challenges involving race, class, and the tourism industry. Plus some historical chatter featuring an unsung hero of the American Revolution!

Julia and Maryalice chat with Lisa Bonos, editor of the Washington Post's Solo-ish column. There's something for everyone in this one: the politics of dating, when politics overlap with dating, and some genuine evidence for the cultural relevance of The Bachelorette. Plus, the ladies get pumped about summer movie season, which is kicking off with some serious girl power!

Maryalice and Julia get the low down on self defense strategies from Gabrielle Rubin. Rubin is an experienced martial artist with a black belt and tons of tips for how women everywhere can take on the world through mental awareness and physical technique. Plus, a cookie-related heist you won't want to miss!

The ladies have partnered with UN Women for an exciting episode about indigenous women and girls. Maryalice and Julia discussed colonialism, climate change, and women being their own forces for change with Beatrice Duncan and Tarcila Rivera Zea: two women fighting for the rights of indigenous peoples. Plus, the book club decision, why Americans are so smily, a middle-of-the-night produce heist!

Julia and Maryalice talk lady spies, "broom-wielding women", and make a big announcement! And an interview with Joan Wages, President of the National Museum of Women's History. Never been there? Tune in and find out why!

Maryalice and Julia talk to three women in male-dominated fields. Featuring 'The Bye Bye Man' director Stacy Title, founder and president of REAL Women in Trucking Desiree Wood, and mŏkbar chef and owner Esther Choi.