

The Wise Unknown
The Wise Unknown
Some of the country’s most revered actors, activists, authors, and spiritual guides introduce listeners to the “wisest person no one has ever heard of” who they credit with being critical to their success in life. Host Courtney E. Martin–think Krista Tippett meets Studs Terkel–then elicits the life lessons, palpable delights, and funny stories of these refreshingly unrefined, unknown gurus.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 24, 2025 • 3min
"Don't let anyone put conditions on your gifts"
Minisode: Listen to Courtney's ever so brief audio essay on the thing she can't forget from her conversation with Agapi Stassinopoulos.Who’s YOUR Wise Unknown? Tell us about them - write to us at thewiseunknown7@gmail.com or send us a short voice note, and we might use it in our next episode.

Feb 17, 2025 • 37min
Arianna Huffington & Agapi Stassinopoulos
Media entrepreneur powerhouse Arianna introduces Courtney to actor, self-love guru, and sister, Agapi.Who’s YOUR Wise Unknown? Tell us about them - write to us at thewiseunknown7@gmail.com or send us a short voice note, and we might use it in our next episode.

Feb 10, 2025 • 4min
"What's really going on?"
Minisode: Listen to Courtney's ever so brief audio essay on the thing she can't forget from her conversation with Janine de Novais.Who’s YOUR Wise Unknown? Tell us about them - write to us at thewiseunknown7@gmail.com or send us a short voice note, and we might use it in our next episode.

Feb 3, 2025 • 40min
adrienne maree brown & Janine de Novais
Bestselling author and movement builder adrienne introduces Courtney to sociological genius and writer, Janine. Who’s YOUR Wise Unknown? Tell us about them - write to us at thewiseunknown7@gmail.com or send us a short voice note, and we might use it in our next episode.

Jan 31, 2025 • 1min
The Wise Unknown returns for Season 2
Some of the country’s favorite actors, activists, and authors introduce listeners to the “wisest person no one has ever heard of” who they credit with being critical to their success in life. Host Courtney E. Martin–think Krista Tippett meets Studs Terkel–elicits the life lessons and palpable delights of these ‘wise unknowns’.

Nov 30, 2023 • 46min
Courtney Martin and Golda Arthur wrap the series
Courtney and Golda talk about how the series was created, look back at some memorable moments from our guests, and hear from listeners. Plus, stay tuned for how you can get your hands on the Wise Unknown poster.

Nov 23, 2023 • 38min
Isabel Allende & Lori Barra
Larger-than-life bestselling novelist Isabel introduces Courtney to a remarkably understated photographer and very patient daughter-in-law, Lori.

Nov 16, 2023 • 34min
Rosario Dawson & Idalia Rodriguez
Renaissance woman Rosario introduces Courtney to her multi-hyphenate, straight-talkin’ bestie.

Nov 9, 2023 • 39min
Ashley Judd and Ted Klontz
Ashley introduces Courtney to the man who helped her find her courage as she blew open the Harvey Weinstein case.

Nov 2, 2023 • 43min
Ai-jen Poo & Joyce Johnson
MacArthur genius and labor organizer Ai-jen introduces Courtney to under-the-radar Civil Rights hero, Joyce Johnson.