The Exploress

Discover the intriguing lives of four sisters who shaped the Crusader States in Medieval Outremer. From rebellions against their father to ruling in their own right, these women navigated conflict and chaos. Learn about their roles in the Crusades, strategic marriages, power struggles, and the unexpected ascension of Queen Regnant Melisende in a tumultuous political landscape.

There’s something stirring about a warrior woman: one who refuses to bow down to the forces against her, no matter how vast they may be. And when they win out? Even better. Let’s talk about three sword-wielding females who went up against the Romans, terrifying all who looked on: Teuta, Amanirenas, and Mavia (Mawiyya). Want more Exploress bonus episodes? I post them regularly over on Patreon. You'll find show notes for this episode at my Exploress website. You can now buy my ladycentric timelines, maps, and art prints at the Exploress shop. 

Explore the lives of Black female entertainers in the 1920s, including Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, Ethel Waters, and Josephine Baker. Learn about the struggles and triumphs they faced, the impact of jazz and blues on their music, and their defiance of societal norms to pursue fame and success in the entertainment industry.

Season 4, Episode 15. Mary Pickford. Clara Bow. Gloria Swanson. Joan Crawford. Greta Garbo. Let’s travel back in time to learn more about the legendary female movie stars behind the most popular silent films of the 1920s. We’ll discuss the controlling Hollywood studio machine, glamorous movie palaces, obsessive fandoms, the Max Factor makeup brand, the dark side of celebrity and fame, the flapper and the vamp archetypes, and of course, the rise of the It Girl. You can buy my ladycentric timelines, maps, and art prints at the Exploress shop. Also, did you know: I’ve got a novel out! NIGHTBIRDS is a 1920s-tinted fantasy about girls who will gift their magic with a kiss...for a price. I think you might just like it. You'll find show notes for this episode at my Exploress website. If you want to support the show, you can do so over on Patreon.  

A special interview with Professor Elizabeth Cobb about her book 'Fearless Women', exploring various aspects of feminism in America and the specific rights women had in the 1920s. The journey of women's rights in the United States, from the right to wear pants to having a woman of color as vice president. Obstacles faced during the suffrage movement, including Abigail Adams' efforts. Power dynamics in a relationship and the structure of a book on women in American history. The impact of women's rights movements on Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Packard. The ongoing struggle for women's rights in the 1920s and misconceptions about liberation. Captivating stories of women featured in a book and time-traveling possibilities.

The podcast explores various topics of the 1920s in America, including the rise of women and cars, swimming and fitness, Coney Island attractions, courtship and dating, the birth control movement, and contradictions in women's social expectations.

Unraveling the mysterious circumstances surrounding a female prisoner accused of a crime. Maureen Watkins immortalizes Bula Anan and the accused murder wrestlers, captivating America. Exploring the role of female journalists in covering trials and rising female criminals. Biola's trial, Sabella's unfair treatment, and shocking conviction of Elizabeth Unkofer and Mary Wozanak. Belva's composed trial outcome. The controversial legacy and adaptations of 'Chicago'.

Remember back in 2021 when the amazing Elodie Harper told us all about the sex workers of ancient Rome, and also her novel The Wolf Den? She's back to talk to us about The Temple of Fortuna, the epic conclusion to her immersive trilogy about a woman just trying to survive in ancient Pompeii. Join us as we talk about courtesans, an ancient queen, female gladiators, and what it might have been like to survive the eruption of Vesuvius. Warning: we WILL be spoiling some aspects of the first two books in the series, so make sure you've read them before you listen. The Temple of Fortuna is out now! Go forth and grab yourself a copy. You can now buy my ladycentric timelines, maps, and art prints at the Exploress shop. You'll find show notes for this episode at my Exploress website. If you want to support the show, you can do so over on Patreon.

Discover the chilling story of Julia Tafana, a prolific female poisoner in Renaissance Italy. Learn about the limited freedoms of women in that era and the underground network of alchemists helping unhappy wives. Dive into the world of poison-making, from the notorious Demetichy family to Julia's infamous concoction, aqua tafana. Explore how Julia ran her deadly business by disguising poison as beauty products and aiding troubled women. Find out about her eventual capture and confession to killing hundreds of men, leaving her fate and the ongoing poisonings uncertain.

Explore the daily routines and experiences of housewives in 1920s America, including the decline in demand for servants. Learn about the influence of advertisers on women's emotions and the challenges faced by mothers. Discover the safety concerns for children and the changing expectations of mothers in the 1920s.