Maggie Lena Walker, a pioneering entrepreneur and community leader, transformed local enterprises in post-Civil War Richmond and became the first female bank president in America. She discusses her journey from a laundress to a leader of the Independent Order of St. Luke, emphasizing her innovative strategies that revitalized membership and created economic opportunities. Walker also shares insights on overcoming systemic racism, the vital role of education in her success, and her commitment to empowering the Black community through entrepreneurship.

Tracy and Holly discuss the possible inspiration for Maggie Lena Walker's name, and then discuss favorite recipes as inspired by a listener mail. They also speculate on Pepper's personality, and how he opened up education to a wide audience. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maggie Lena Walker was the first Black woman in the U.S. to charter a bank – she was also the first Black woman in the U.S. to serve as a bank’s president. But the bank was only one of her many endeavors which focused on improving the lives of the entire Black community. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.