Whether or not you plan on drinking margaritas today, (no judgement) let’s uncover the the true history of Cinco De Mayo. So we’re not one of the people getting sippin' and eating today with no context, thinking today is Mexican Independence Day! In this episode, we discuss: What happened on this day in history One of the most common misconceptions about this day If and how they celebrate Cinco De Mayo in Mexico How and why Cinco De Mayo became such a big deal in America Available now, where eve...
May 05, 2024•4 min•Season 5Ep. 8
Tax Day is creeping up on us! Ever wondered, why doesn’t anyone say Happy Tax Day? Cause doing taxes suck! With tax day right around the corner you could be doing one of these three things;(1) chillin, cause you have your ish together and already submitted your taxes, (2) scrambling to get your ish together to just make it to the deadline by the skin of your teeth,Or (3) throwing up your hands, thinking,”fuck it” and buying yourself more time by submitting to get an extension until October. No m...
Apr 15, 2024•54 min•Season 5Ep. 7
Did you know? Before the Civil War, one in four cowboys was Black, a fact that highlights their integral role in shaping the American West. In this captivating episode of "The Hidden History of Black Cowboys," we journey into the American West to uncover a piece of history that's often overlooked and that Hollywood tells us is white. With our special guest, Zaron Burnett, a renowned writer, journalist, and the host of the acclaimed podcast "BLACK COWBOYS," you'll learn: The True American Cowboy:...
Apr 10, 2024•1 hr 27 min•Season 5Ep. 6
Happy New Year! What mystical, magical power does January hold that makes it THEE month we swear we're going to get our mind, money, and of course, our spiritual lives, right? We head to the local craft store and buy the latest "Happy Me" Planner and all those damn stickers! Head home and binge-watch 10,000 hours of content about goal planning and productivity. January is the month millions master the art of planning-- so why don't our well-laid plans have the power to stick? In this episode of,...
Jan 18, 2024•27 min•Season 5Ep. 5
Tis the season for reinventing ourselves, making list of ins and outs and creating the R word- New Year Resolutions - but ever wondered how New Year Resolutions all started? Listen to this episode to uncover how annual promises became an essential part of our lives- think ancient times and middle east. Fun fact: While 45 percent of Americans dive into New Year's resolutions, only a cool 9 percent see them through. Yes! That is a horrible success rate. Tune into this episode to learn: The connect...
Jan 04, 2024•13 min•Season 5Ep. 4
Did you know? Before the Civil War, one in four cowboys was Black, a fact that highlights their integral role in shaping the American West. In this captivating episode of "The Hidden History of Black Cowboys," we journey into the American West to uncover a piece of history that's often overlooked and that Hollywood tells us is white. With our special guest, Zaron Burnett, a renowned writer, journalist, and the host of the acclaimed podcast "BLACK COWBOYS," you'll learn: The True American Cowboy:...
Sep 21, 2023•1 hr 26 min•Season 5Ep. 3
In this episode, we're diving into the rich history of Black folks in the world of surfing. Many text say the first accounts of surfing started in Hawaii in 1778 but evidence shows otherwise. From the shores of West Africa to the modern-day waves, we're uncovering how Black folks have been riding the waves since the 1640s and carving out safe spaces in surfing today. What You'll Learn: The origins of Black individuals riding waves as far back as the 1640s. The cultural significance of surf-canoe...
Aug 04, 2023•29 min•Season 5Ep. 2
Celebrate the Barbie Movie premiere weekend by uncovering a fascinating journey through Barbie's history, shining a spotlight on the empowering story of Black Barbie. From Francie's flop to glamour of Black Barbie's, discover the inspiring evolution of this iconic doll! In this short bonus -solo episode your host Toya, gives you all the tea and receipts on Barbie. You even get to find out her real name. In this episode you will learn: Discover the visionary creator behind Barbie and the inspirat...
Jul 21, 2023•14 min
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating story of how Black brilliance played a crucial role in shaping American Oyster culture. From pioneering techniques to thriving communities, we explore the remarkable contributions that have influenced the oyster industry and how we enjoy oysters today. Joining us is special guest Zella Palmer, a renowned culinary historian, podcaster, and author. Topics Covered in the Episode: Enslaved Africans and their water-working skills brought from West Africa ...
Jul 13, 2023•1 hr 3 min•Season 5Ep. 1
This summer on the podcast, we're bringing together the pure joy of summertime with the thrill of uncovering untold histories that center around summer-themed topics. From the history of surfing to the history of Black cowboys. This summer session of podcast episodes is the adult summer camp you never knew you always wanted to go to. Where you see your friends everyday, take mad cool field trips all over the city and have those big belly laughs and all that good stuff. Think of this as the magic...
Jul 13, 2023•4 min
Did you know there was a time when July 4th was a Black holiday? Yep! Listen to find out when, why, and how Black folks made July 4th their own holiday, while also learning the remarkable ways movements and activists have used America's Birthday to continue the ongoing fight for equality. In this quick 30-minute solo episode , you'll learn: What does July 4th truly represent? And why do we celebrate it? How July 4th became a platform for challenging America's institution of slavery and calling f...
Jun 29, 2023•30 min•Season 4Ep. 10
We're kicking off Juneteenth weekend with some Juneteenth facts and celebrating the podcast's 3-year anniversary. Did you know that this podcast was started on June 19th, 2020? In this week's solo dolo episode, explore 10 facts that everyone should know about this pivotal day, including the historical significance of General Granger's arrival in Texas in 1865. Then also hear me reflect on why I picked Juneteenth to launch the podcast and all the things I have learned so far on this journey of cr...
Jun 15, 2023•38 min•Season 4Ep. 9
Did you know PRIDE month has a theme? Yep this year's theme is an important one and is one of the 7 facts we learn in this episode. Get ready to uncover hidden stories, meet trailblazing activists like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, and celebrate the joyous spirit of love and inclusivity that defines Pride Month. This episode is a captivating exploration of rainbows, riots, and the unwavering strength of a community that continues to make history. Tune in and let the vibrant tales of resil...
Jun 01, 2023•26 min•Season 4Ep. 8
Have you ever wondered how grillz, those shimmering gold or diamond-studded mouthpieces, came to symbolize style, status, and self-expression? Find out in this solo episode of "That Wasn't In My Textbook," where we explore the fascinating history of grillz, the iconic dental bling that has become synonymous with hip-hop culture. From ancient civilizations to modern-day celebrities, we go on a journey through time, exploring the origins, cultural influences, and evolution of grillz. Listen to thi...
May 18, 2023•29 min•Season 4Ep. 7
Have you ever caught yourself waiting until the last minute to complete a task, even though you know you should have started sooner? We all have! But if you haven't please teach me your ways. But have you ever wondered WHY we procrastinate? Is it really just a sign of laziness or poor time management skills? In this episode of we uncover the surprising history and science of procrastination including helpful tips helpful tips on how to overcome procrastination. Topics covered in this episode inc...
May 04, 2023•31 min•Season 4Ep. 6
Tax Day is creeping up on us! Ever wondered, why doesn’t anyone say Happy Tax Day? Cause doing taxes suck! With tax day right around the corner you could be doing one of these three things;(1) chillin, cause you have your ish together and already submitted your taxes, (2) scrambling to get your ish together to just make it to the deadline by the skin of your teeth,Or (3) throwing up your hands, thinking,”fuck it” and buying yourself more time by submitting to get an extension until October. No m...
Apr 13, 2023•53 min•Season 4Ep. 5
Did you know that in the 1960s the most popular 8th grade textbook only mentioned two Black people in the entire century of history that had transpired since the Civil War? Yep! So even though we celebrate Black History 365/24/7- Black history month was created to ensure that teachers and schools had to talk about Black History at some point in the academic year. So while brands, businesses and companies often use this time to tap into diversity and Black creators, Black History Month was create...
Feb 01, 2023•13 min•Season 4Ep. 4
Cue the fireworks and bring on the confetti; we're celebrating the 33rd anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr. Day! Yes, I recognize celebrating a 33rd anniversary is a bit odd. Still, considering the hard-fought battle to have the only "King" we recognize honored with a national holiday, I think it's worth celebrating this historic milestone. In this bonus episode, we are recognizing the movers and shakers like Congressman John Conyers, Stevie Wonder, and even the National Football League (yes, ...
Jan 12, 2023•19 min
Happy New Year! What mystical, magical power does January hold that makes it THEE month we swear we're going to get our mind, money, and of course, our spiritual lives, right? We head to the local craft store and buy the latest "Happy Me" Planner and all those damn stickers! Head home and binge-watch 10,000 hours of content about goal planning and productivity. January is the month millions master the art of planning-- so why don't our well-laid plans have the power to stick? In this episode of,...
Jan 05, 2023•27 min•Season 4Ep. 3
Does it seem like "everybody and their cousin" is on social media these days? If you've silently said to yourself, "It's just a fad that will die out soon," you may be surprised to learn that social media isn't exiting the stage anytime soon. It's center stage, baby! And will remain an integral part of our lives. Its presence is felt in our political system and has launched ( and killed ) more careers than Show Time At The Apollo . Simply put, Social media is the most significant invention of th...
Dec 01, 2022•1 hr 10 min•Season 4Ep. 2
Does the looming recession have you ready to withdraw your money from the bank, dig a hole, and bury your money and head in the sand until someone gives the "all clear signal "? If so, you're not alone, but I NEED you to put down the shovel and tune into this episode of That Wasn't In My Textbook. Recessions and economic downturns are a part of our history; whether we like it or not, we're knee-deep into one. But before you go into full panic mode, I bet your history teacher never told you that ...
Nov 17, 2022•45 min•Season 4Ep. 1
Do you know that June 19th is known as the Day of Freedom? Last year the President made June 19th, also called Juneteenth, an official federal holiday to commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. In this quick 20-minute episode find out 9 Facts that we ALL should know about today and why General Granger's arrival in Texas on June 19th 1865, is a very important historical day for Blacks here in America- that should be in all of our textbooks. Tune in to learn 69facts you should...
Jun 18, 2022•20 min•Season 3Ep. 10
We know memorial day as the last weekend in May that honors veterans and marks the beginning of summer. But how did this holiday start? And who created it? Listen to this episode to find out the real history of memorial day, that includes Black folks. Here are key things to listen out for: Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day The Overlooked Black History Memorial Day Historian David’s narration of the first Memorial Day The story of Sergeant Butler Whitewashing process of retelling ...
May 28, 2022•36 min•Season 3Ep. 9
Whether or not you plan on drinking margaritas today, (no judgement) let’s uncover the the true history of Cinco De Mayo. So we’re not one of the people getting sippin and eating today with no context, thinking today is Mexican Independence Day! In this episode, we discuss: What happened on this day in history One of the most common misconceptions about this day If and how they celebrate Cinco De Mayo in Mexico How and why Cinco De Mayo became such a big deal in America Available now, where ever...
May 05, 2022•4 min
The history of the African head wrap is one that is steeped in controversy. Long before it was appreciated for its ability to compliment beautiful black hair, it was blamed for its association with slavery, seen as a sign of inferiority, and even outlawed. In this episode, Toya and Paola take us on a journey through time, while explaining the controversial history of headwraps Here are key things to listen out for: Trace the history of the African head wrap and how its meaning and significance h...
Apr 29, 2022•1 hr 17 min•Season 3Ep. 8
Long before it was a historic day and number used to identify cannabis use, the term 420 has been used for decades by a group of people who share no common medical or recreational agenda. This is an interesting and rare collection of stories and facts about 420. From the beginning until today's worldwide acceptance, walk takes you through time while explaining the origins of 420. Here are key things to listen out for: The true origins, the true roots of the term 420 and how it became codeword fo...
Apr 20, 2022•38 min•Season 3Ep. 7
Before Gwyneth Paltrow was out here selling candles that smelled like her vagina. Thanks, Gwyneth, but I'll pass. This week's podcast guest, Denequa Williams Clarke of Lit Brooklyn, had already changed the game with ethically sourced fragrant luxury candles. Sometimes finding your center after a long day can only be achieved with a glass of wine, or tea (I'm not judging), and a dope candle. Candles are a big part of my life, considering they are part of a three billion-dollar industry in the Uni...
Feb 04, 2022•57 min•Season 3Ep. 6
Did you know that in the 1960s the most popular 8th grade textbook only mentioned two Black people in the entire century of history that had transpired since the Civil War? Yep! So even though we celebrate Black History 365/24/7- Black history month was created to ensure that teachers and schools had to talk about Black History at some point in the academic year. So while brands, businesses and companies often use this time to tap into diversity and Black creators, Black History Month was create...
Feb 01, 2022•13 min
Whether or not you like reality TV, you have to admit its one of the most popular TV genres that's definitely here to stay. So in this episode we trace when reality TV first showed up on our TV screens ( Hint it was 73 years ago). So while many of us think of reality TV as the Kardashian or The Real Housewives, reality television a much broader, wider, deeper, history than most of us might think. Joined by YouTube Content Creator Wahima aka Just Call Me Wah, dive into this episode to learn how t...
Dec 03, 2021•1 hr 20 min•Season 3Ep. 5
Many of our textbooks tell this beautiful story of Thanksgiving Day being a historic fest that took place in America in 1621 where Pilgrims and colonizers broke bread together in peace and harmony. While it sounds beautiful many Historians have pointed out that the events surrounding the real Thanksgiving don't match up with the stories in our textbooks. In this episode, we debunk 5 myths of that textbook Thanksgiving story to uncover the truth. This episode is not going to make you feel bad abo...
Nov 24, 2021•26 min•Season 3Ep. 4
