Episode Description: 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 ...
Mar 18, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Season 4Ep. 2
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 pe...
Feb 07, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 4Ep. 1
🎙️ 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 ...
Jan 20, 2025•8 min
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...
Jun 04, 2024•53 min•Season 3Ep. 3
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. Tayl...
Feb 29, 2024•48 min•Season 3Ep. 2
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 Ame...
Feb 14, 2024•38 min•Season 3Ep. 1
A preview of season 3
Jan 18, 2024•12 min
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 examine...
Jun 19, 2023•25 min•Season 2Ep. 4
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 th...
May 29, 2023•41 min•Season 2Ep. 3
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 ...
Feb 28, 2023•41 min•Season 2Ep. 2
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 the song during the last hour of his show. The song became an instant hit and went viral, with people calling the stati...
Feb 01, 2023•33 min•Season 2Ep. 1
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 podcast debuts on Feb. 1, 2023.
Dec 07, 2022•12 min
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 river that day? Why was it dangerous for Tom to attempt the rescues? Why is May a fun time in Memphis? How did Memphis repa...
Sep 30, 2022•42 min•Season 1Ep. 8
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 Washington DC. In this episode, you will hear: Why Ledger Smith went to the March On Washington on roller skates Why Dr. Kin...
Aug 22, 2022•29 min•Season 1Ep. 7
How did Black America help birth a nation? In this special episode of the Black Is America podcast, we explore the story of the known patriots like Crispus Attucks and also some of the lesser-known ones like Peter Salem and Salem Poor. We also make the case why the 4th of July is very important to Black America. In this episode, you will hear: How George Washington felt about enslaved black people serving in the Continental Army Why Crispus Attucks was in the front of the crowd at the Boston Mas...
Jul 04, 2022•17 min•Season 1Ep. 6
How did Black America create Memorial Day? In this special episode of the Black Is America podcast, we explore the little-known story of recently enslaved citizens of Charleston, South Carolina, honored Union soldiers. In doing so, they inadvertently create a holiday we celebrate today. In this episode, you will hear: How the Charlestonians honored the Union Soldiers Who was given credit for creating Memorial Day How South Carolina has acknowledged what happened on May 1, 1865. Yale professor Da...
May 30, 2022•13 min•Season 1Ep. 5
How does one compete in NASCAR while facing discrimination? In this episode of the Black Is America podcast, we chronicle the life of NASCAR legend Wendell Scott. The Danville, Virginia native goes from the bootlegging on the back roads of the Commonwealth to extraordinary heights of stock car racing. Even though Scott would never have a significant sponsor, he would still compete against the best in NASCAR. In this episode, you will hear: A brief history of Danville, Virginia Why the story of W...
Feb 28, 2022•58 min•Season 1Ep. 4
How does one become a musical legend? In the conclusion of Marian Anderson: The American Contralto, we chronicle Marian's journey through Europe as she is called "the voice of the century." After a successful trip to Europe and being met with resistance to perform at Consitution Hall, it led to a concert at the Lincoln Memorial. Later we talk to Charlie Edmunds about her experience teaching music in East Tennessee and a new program she is creating to expose more students to learn how to play bla...
Feb 15, 2022•37 min•Season 1Ep. 3
What does it take to be the best to do it? In Part 1 of this Black Is America podcast presentation, we chronicle the story of the great American contralto Marian Anderson. We discuss her early singing experiences in church, the power and emotion of the Negro spiritual, and why what Black America creates is often hard to duplicate. In this episode, you will hear: About Marian's upbringing Why the church is essential to the African American community The cheat code embedded in the black community ...
Feb 08, 2022•39 min•Season 1Ep. 2
What does it take to make the ultimate sacrifice? In the first episode of the Black Is America podcast, we learn the story of Lt. John Fox. From very humble beginnings in the Cincinnati area to courageous actions in the Italian theater, John Fox is an excellent example of Black America displaying bravery on the battlefield in the face of discrimination. In this episode, you will hear: Where John Fox grew up More about the village of Sommocolonia How his life was building towards his actions on D...
Feb 01, 2022•44 min•Season 1Ep. 1
Black Is America Podcast creator Dominic Lawson explains why he created the show and what you can come to expect from Season 1. It also includes a clip from the very first episode.
Sep 01, 2021•9 min
