The Exploress

Explore the glamorous world of geisha in Tokugawa Japan with insights into their intense training, mysterious rituals, and evolution from taiyu. Learn about sumptuary laws regulating attire, the significance of fashion, makeup, and the unique lifestyle of geishas as artists and performers.

Explore the hidden role of women in tea ceremonies and the diverse living arrangements of Tokugawa Japan. Dive into urban living conditions, architectural structures, and societal practices. Discover the cultural significance of marriage, the challenges faced by women seeking independence, and the complexities of divorce in Tokugawa Japan.

Travel back to Tokugawa Japan and uncover the mysterious rituals of itako shamans, explore the social structure and power dynamics of the Tokugawa Shogunate, and learn about the roles of female shamans and the eventual ban on their activities in Japanese society.

Exploring the challenges faced by royal sisters in medieval Outremer, from rebellion to scandal and rebellious sons. Delving into the power struggles, trial by combat, and tragic events that shaped their lives. Highlighting Queen Melisande's rise to power and her influence as a female ruler in a turbulent realm. Unveiling the legacy of influential queens in Outremer and their significant impact on future female rulers.

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.