More Than A Muse
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It's our LAST episode of March Madness and to celebrate, Stauney and Sadie and diving deep into a topic they're passionate about: Girlhood. It's a "coming of rage" story as we discuss the myth behind "girls mature faster," talking about the language we use with girls vs boys, periods and boobs, skincare and makeup, the "Sephora teens" from this year, dress codes, anti-aging, plastic surgery, menopause, virginity, divorce, finding joy in childhood interests, fitting into "life stages" and all the other incredible, messed-up, unfair and strange things that change us from women into girls. We talk about the challenges of being forced to grow up too soon and then told our whole lives that we need to "look younger." We also get personal talking about our own experiences growing up, coming into our own, discovering who we are, and reclaiming the parts of us we lost along the way. Losing your girlhood is a violent, angry experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, Stauney and Sadie talk about the popular short story by Charlotte Perkins Gillman, "The Yellow Wallpaper" about a woman's descent into madness after her husband locks her in the home's nursery to "cure her" of a nervous breakdown. We start by briefly discussing the Hulu special "I Was a Child Bride: The Untold Story" and discuss the plight of young women in the United States. We then talk about the author of the story, her personal reasons behind writing the narrative, the effect it had on the public, and how we felt about the story itself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sadie walks us through the important literature and musical works that show the simmering of feminine rage throughout history in various ways. Stauney and Sadie discuss Sylvia Plath, Margaret Atwood, Dolly Parton, The Chicks, and many many many more! Join us as we learn about the different mediums of artwork celebrating women and their rage throughout the ages and continuing today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Stauney and Sadie continue our March Madness by giving an overview of works of art and movies that help encapsulate the themes and ideas behind feminine rage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, Stauney and Sadie are joined by Hall Rockefeller of 'Less Than Half' to talk about the evolution of rage within women's art and the state of it today. Hall shared some of the pieces and people that stand out to her the most about feminine rage, and also shares her thoughts on the art market today, and her personal feelings about feminine rage. Are we allowing women to be angry in their art? Or are we only trying to give voices to the more marketable emotions? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Building on our conversation from earlier this week, Sadie and Stauney delve into the historical treatment of young women, often mere children, across different eras and contexts. We explore the enforced labor within the Magdalene Laundries, the coercion of women into prostitution as "Comfort Women," and the widespread issues of femicide, gender-based violence, and homicide that persist in contemporary society. Our discussion extends to the connections between these historical abuses and present-day challenges, examining the ways societal perceptions of women have influenced our culture. We confront the reality that our world, burdened by shame over its historical errors, struggles to amend the ongoing injustices. TW: abuse, rape, sexual assault, murder, homicide, death (no heavy details, but may still be triggering to some listeners. Take care of yourselves!) Check out our merch: morethanamusepodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week kicks off Women's History Month and March Madness with the harrowing stories of how women's bodies have been historically used against their consent to further medical progress, merely experiment, discipline and punish, or to monetarily profit. Stauney and Sadie tell the maddening stories of Rosemary Kennedy, Ann Cooper Hewitt, Henrietta Lacks, and many other unnamed women who were affected by this misogyny in the early days of human history and how that has rippled down to today. Stay tuned for another episode this week, and check out our March Madness collection at morethanamusepodcast.com/store Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, we are delighted to have Sarah Gristwood as a guest to discuss her most recent book release "Secret Voices: A Year of Women's Diaries." This book is a collection of extracts from women’s diaries, looking back over four centuries to discover how women’s experience has changed over the years and how it hasn’t. Stauney, Sadie, and Sarah discuss the variety of entries, the process of women writing in diaries and how they were preserved, the importance of daily records, how it's changing in the digital age, and what Sarah hopes people will take away from her latest release. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, Sadie introduces us to the talented artist Tracy Chapman, who most recently performed at the Grammy Awards Show. Tracy Chapman, known for her powerful songs and unique voice, has recently gained attention again thanks to Luke Combs' award-winning cover of her hit "Fast Car." In this episode, Stauney and Sadie discuss how Chapman mixed her music with activism, touching on topics like social change while keeping her personal life private. The recognition of "Fast Car" by the CMA highlights how Chapman's work continues to appeal to new generations and remains relevant today, and even secured her the spot as the first Black artist to ever win the Song of the Year at the CMA's. We talk about her successful career, rise to fame, activism, and recent resurgence on the Billboard Hot 100. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week Stauney and Sadie are diving deep into one of television's greatest empires, Shondaland, run by the great storyteller Shonda Rhimes. We discuss Rhime's childhood, her history with ABC, and her revolutionary deal with Netflix. We then spend some time on each of her long-lasting shows and their impact on the future of television, including Grey's Anatomy, Scandal, How to Get Away with Murder, Inventing Anna, Queen Charlotte, and Bridgerton. Shondaland has changed the way women's stories are told on television, allowed more complex stories to take place, and also made diversity a top priority so that the screen finally mirrors the world around us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, Stauney and Sadie discuss the complicated story of Phillis Wheatley Peters, the first African-American to publish poetry. After a complicated history of being sold into slavery and purchased by a family who separated her from the other slaves and gave her an elaborate education including Latin, Peters would go on to write beautiful poetry. She was put on trial to prove herself as the author, used as a parlor trick, and eventually was able to publish her poetry in London before being granted freedom. Her story is as horrific as her words are beautiful, but her art paved the way for further generations to understand the capabilities of a race of people who would be fundamental in the foundation of the new world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, we're rounding out Women in Rock month by diving into the rockin' world of Janis Joplin, Joan Jett, Patti Smith, and Pat Benatar and their incredible journeys to stardom. We're talking about the unique paths each of these legendary ladies took in a music scene dominated by men and their rise to legends of rock. From Janis's powerhouse performances to Joan's no-nonsense attitude, Patti's poetic punk vibes, and Pat's voice that broke all the rules – it's a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs. These women didn't just make music; they made history, influencing countless musicians and music fans around the globe. Get ready to be inspired by their stories of grit, guts, and rocking out against the odds! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, we continue our series of women in rock. Sadie introduces us to Carole Kaye, a trailblazing female bassist whose remarkable talent shaped the sound of American popular music in the 1960s and 70s. Despite her significant contributions to over 10,000 songs, Kaye remains relatively under-recognized and unsung. As a key member of a group of elite Los Angeles session musicians, she worked with iconic figures like The Beach Boys, Frank Sinatra, The Supremes, Sonny and Cher, and Ray Charles, featured on hits like "California Girls" and "These Boots Are Made for Walkin.' We discuss her legendary bass skills, how she not only broke barriers in a male-dominated industry but also inspired generations through her work as an educator, and how her enduring legacy stands as a testament to her exceptional skill, resilience, and influence, underscoring her role as a pivotal figure in the soundtrack of rock and roll's most celebrated era. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, we had the absolute pleasure of talking to Katherine Yeske Taylor about her new book "She's a Badass: Women in Rock Shaping Feminism" which is coming out tomorrow! Throughout the 20 chapters, she interviewed fundamental women in rock like Suzi Quatro, Ann Wilson (Heart), Exene Cervenka (X), Gina Schock (the Go-Go's), Lydia Lunch, Suzanne Vega, Cherie Currie (The Runaways), Joan Osborne, Donita Sparks (L7), Amy Ray (Indigo Girls), Tanya Donelly (Throwing Muses, the Breeders, Belly), Paula Cole, Tobi Vail (Bikini Kill), Laura Veirs, Catherine Popper, Amanda Palmer, Bonnie Bloomgarden (Death Valley Girls), Orianthi, Fefe Dobson, and Sade Sanchez (L.A. Witch). We talk about the process of writing the book, the struggles of women in the early rock scene, and the fundamental women that shaped the scene. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This month, we turn our spotlight to Women in Rock, featuring Stauney's introduction to Stevie Nicks, the renowned lead singer of Fleetwood Mac, following a captivating concert in December. Stauney, alongside Sadie, delves into Stevie's musical journey, starting with her early collaboration with Lindsay Buckingham, their ascent to fame with Fleetwood Mac, and the band's rollercoaster of breakups and reunions. They also highlight her impressive solo career, her significant contributions to songwriting, and her inspiring recovery from addiction. Stevie Nicks, a symbol of resilience and grace in the face of stardom, has profoundly influenced early rock music and remains a powerful role model in the industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, Stauney and Sadie wrap up their favorite art from the past year, including books, movies, TV shows, artworks, music, and their favorite episodes! This year was an incredible year of many episodes and wonderful works of art by incredible women and this was the chance to touch on all of them and shout out the best of the best. Enjoy the recommendations and thoughts, and have a happy new year! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, Sadie dives into the live and career of Brenda Lee, a musical dynamo whose influence resonates through the corridors of rock, country, and pop. From her humble beginnings as a child prodigy to becoming an iconic voice in the music industry, Brenda Lee's journey is a tapestry of talent, resilience, and chart-topping hits, including recently being crowned the oldest woman to ever chart on the Billboard Hot 100. As the woman behind the iconic hit 'Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree,' Lee's impact spans generations. In this episode, we unravel the threads of her remarkable career, delving into the melodies that shaped an era and the indomitable spirit that defines Brenda Lee as a true legend in the realm of music! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, Stauney and Sadie dive into a long-awaited episode about the legend, Dolly Parton. Dolly has a legacy that we would be unable to sum up in just over an hour, so we give you a quick overview of her life story, and then dive into some of our favorite Dolly stories and the endless legacy she has created during her 5-decade long career. We talk about her songwriting, philanthropy, her look, Dollywood, her recent album release, and all the Dollyisms that make her beloved by everyone of all ages, genders, political affiliations, and more. Dolly Parton is truly a beacon of light in the entertainment industry, a woman with humility and dignity, an enduring icon, and could never be labeled as anything less than a national treasure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A woman who never sold a painting, but because she didn't want to? This week, Stauney brings us into the whimsical world of Florine Stettheimer, a New York native who opened an eccentric salon, created a whole new painting style, secretly wrote poems about the New York elite, designed furniture, costumes, fashion, stage sets and captured the spirit of the city in a way that hadn't been seen before and hasn't been seen since. She was just as famous as Georgia O'Keefe during her lifetime, and in her death, she was almost completely obliterated from the pages of art history. Join us in learning about her incredible life and legacy and championing her artistry again. Florine Stettheimer is truly unforgettable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this week's episode, Stauney and Sadie delve into the culinary arts, spotlighting six women who revolutionized North American cuisine: M.F.K. Fisher, Buwei Yang Chao, Julia Child, Paula Deen, Lena Richard, and Rachael Ray. Their collective impact spans generations, covering diverse cuisines such as Chinese, French, Southern Comfort, and Creole, and going from writing cookbooks as experts to television shows as celebrity chefs. Additionally, we discuss the gender disparity in culinary courses and leadership roles, addressing societal expectations of women in the kitchen and the need for recognition and fair compensation for their culinary contributions! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Have you ever thought about a time before the telephone when Mary didn't yet have a little lamb and there was no Thanksgiving? Those might not seem connected, but this week, Sadie takes us back to early America to talk about the woman who brings it all together, Sarah Josepha Hale. Hale was a 19th-century literary legend who left an indelible mark on American culture and was considered the greatest influence on early American trends and traditions. Best known for penning "Mary Had a Little Lamb," Hale's legacy extends far beyond, with a 40-year career as a pioneering editor, prolific writer, and staunch advocate for Thanksgiving as a national holiday, she played a pivotal role in shaping the entire landscape of her time. We'll discuss Hale, her enduring contributions to literature, and the spirited journey that makes her a timeless figure in American history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In probably some of the craziest stories we've ever heard, this week, Stauney and Sadie dive deep into the world of "catfights" discussing how the term evolved from its historical roots to its current portrayal in modern media. We're going beyond the clichés to unravel the threads of catfight culture, exploring why these confrontations between women have become such a sensation. From ancient times to today's tabloids, we're untangling the drama, competition, and conflicts that make catfights a cultural phenomenon. Get ready for a truly wild ride through the history and controversy of these female clashes – it's way more than just hisses and hair-pulling! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, Stauney talks about the Prima Ballerina, Maria Tallchief and how her pioneering spirit challenged the norms of the predominantly European art form and ushered in a new era for ballet in the United States. From her early training at the School of American Ballet to becoming the first American and Native American prima ballerina, Tallchief's career was marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence. This episode discusses the life and achievements of Maria Tallchief, from her formative years in the Oklahoma Osage Tribe to her extraordinary rise as a legendary ballet figure. We discuss her contributions of change to the future of ballet forever, her role in breaking down racial barriers, and her enduring influence on the world of dance. Maria Tallchief's remarkable and transformative odyssey is a testament to the enduring power of passion, talent, and cultural pride. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Happy Halloween! To end our month of murder mysteries, this week Stauney and Sadie delve into the riveting realm of two iconic characters, Amy Dunne from Gillian Flynn's "Gone Girl" and Scarlett O'Hara from Margaret Mitchell's "Gone with the Wind," uncovering the eerie parallels in their psychopathic behavior, and the infamous stories they play the title role in. We discuss the differences and parallels in their stories, sharing the plots of the books/movies and the impact that their portrayal of womanhood has on how we view feminity and the society of their time period. We also talk about the general idea of unlikable or villainous female characters, the rarity of psychopathy in women, and the ways that their motivations can be dissected to garner sympathy despite their outlandish actions. Major thanks to this article by Shruthi Sailesh "Female Psychopaths in Literature: A Comparative Analysis" on Medium Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For this month's bonus episode, Stauney and Sadie share their thoughts on the book "Savage Appetites: Four True Stories of Women, Crime, and Obsession" by Rachel Monroe. This book covers the question "Why are women so obsessed with true crime?" by diving into four real stories from four different time periods (nutshell dollhouses, the Manson family murders, Satanic panic, and Columbine) and their individual obsessions with different true crime archetypes. We talk about the different people and time periods covered in the book as well as our individual relationships with true crime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Alfred Hitchcock, renowned as the "Master of Suspense," directed a range of films with equally intricate leading ladies. In this episode, we dive deep into the horrifying connections between Hitchcock and his female stars, shedding light on the secrets that have intrigued audiences for decades. We'll discuss the compelling and saddening stories of Hitchcock's "ice cold blondes" like June Howard-Tripp, Madeleine Carroll, Ingrid Bergman, Joan Fontaine, and Tippi Hedren. Furthermore, we'll explore Hitchcock's characterizations, which some interpret as potentially revealing a complex relationship with women. We'll also examine the pivotal contributions of his screenwriters, Joan Harrison and Alma Reville, who played a significant role in the director's legendary status and made him the film legend he was. TW: We do discuss sexual assault as well as other topics commonly covered in Hitchcock films Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In our next installment of MTAM Murder Mystery Month, Sadie takes us into the enduring legacy of teenage all-American sleuth Nancy Drew! Although all the books were written under the pseudonym "Carolyn Keene," the real authors and creators were a cast of many people who helped make the icon she is today. We discuss her creation and Hardy Boy counterparts, the creator, editor, and authors including the most famous Mildred Benson), the controversy surrounding the ownership, and how she has inspired many prominent women with her independence, resourcefulness, and smarts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to More Than A Muse Murder Mystery Month!!! This week, to start our October series, Stauney covers the life of famous mystery author Agatha Christie. Although her life is highly documented, after becoming a celebrated author, she disappeared for 9 days starting one of the largest manhunts in history, and showed up with no memories shortly after. She also traveled immensely with details of her various travels seeping into the detective novels, and remains to this day one of the most accomplished, published, and celebrated authors of all time. We talk all about her life, how she gained her details of locations, war, poison, and betrayal, and the legacy she has left on the world of crime fiction. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
