PodcastsHistoryShe Changed History

She Changed History

Cara Gardner, Simon Hurley and Vicky Payne
She Changed History
Latest episode

55 episodes

  • She Changed History

    52. Dorothy Parker: A writer with more than one twist

    03/03/2026 | 39 mins.
    This week Cara delves into the life and career of Dorothy Parker, focusing on her iconic humour and the challenges and tragedies she faced. It explores her personal life, career, involvement in the Algonquin Round Table, and her transition to screenwriting. The discussion provides insights into her wit, social circle, and professional journey. The conversation delves into Dorothy Parker's life, highlighting her Hollywood years, social activism, and enduring legacy.

    Takeaways
    Dorothy Parker's Iconic Humour
    Challenges and Tragedies in Dorothy Parker's Life Dorothy Parker's enduring relevance
    Dorothy Parker's impact on social change

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Personal Life
    11:30 The Algonquin Round Table
    18:23 The Hollywood Years
    29:07 Legacy and Impact
  • She Changed History

    51. Dame Caroline Haslett: British plugs are the best!

    17/02/2026 | 45 mins.
    This conversation explores the life and contributions of Dame Caroline Haslett, a pioneering figure in electrical engineering and women's rights. The discussion covers her early life, her role in establishing the Women's Engineering Society, and her significant impact on electrical safety standards, particularly the British three-pin plug. The hosts reflect on her legacy and the importance of women in STEM fields, emphasizing her determination and innovative spirit.

    Chapters
    00:00 Reno Life and Decision-Making
    01:21 The Importance of Aesthetics in Home Decor
    03:05 Celebrating Domestic Engineering
    05:59 The Life of Dame Caroline Hazlitt
    08:47 Women in Engineering and the Suffragette Movement
    11:44 Building the Women's Engineering Society
    13:25 The Impact of Caroline Hazlitt's Work
    16:32 The Rise of Electricity and Its Impact
    18:38 Empowering Women Through the Electrical Revolution
    21:50 Caroline Haslett: A Pioneer in Electrical Safety
    28:37 Post-War Innovations in Electrical Installations
    37:57 The Legacy of Caroline Haslett and Her Contributions
  • She Changed History

    50. Nadia Murad: From Captivity to Advocacy

    03/02/2026 | 38 mins.
    This conversation delves into the powerful story of Nadia Murad, a Yazidi woman who survived the atrocities of ISIS and became a global advocate for human rights. The discussion covers her early life, the impact of the ISIS invasion on her community, her escape from captivity, and her ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the plight of Yazidi women and girls. The hosts reflect on the importance of empathy, advocacy, and the need to put humanity first in the face of adversity.
    Takeaways
    Nadia Murad's story is one of resilience and strength.
    The Yazidi community has faced centuries of persecution.
    The ISIS invasion in 2014 led to a calculated genocide against the Yazidis.
    Nadia's escape from captivity was a pivotal moment in her life.
    Advocacy for survivors of sexual violence is crucial for healing.
    Nadia's work emphasizes the importance of justice and accountability.
    Empowering women is essential for rebuilding communities.
    The role of the international community in supporting survivors is vital.
    Nadia's optimism serves as a beacon of hope for many.
    The need for kindness and humanity in times of crisis is paramount.
    Chapters
    01:04 Transitioning to Serious Topics
    04:06 Introducing Nadia Murad and Her Background
    06:56 Understanding the Yazidi Community
    09:11 The Invasion of ISIS and Its Impact
    12:07 Nadia's Captivity and the Horrors Faced
    14:52 The Aftermath and Nadia's Resilience
    17:28 The Awakening of Defiance
    20:54 The Journey to Freedom
    21:43 Finding a Voice in Advocacy
    24:37 Recognition and Impact
    27:06 Building a Better Future
    30:45 The Murad Code and Survivor Advocacy
    32:14 A Message of Hope and Humanity
  • She Changed History

    49. Nzinga Mbandi: The African Queen Who Defied Empires

    20/01/2026 | 44 mins.
    Summary

    In this episode, Vicky and Cara delve into the remarkable life of Nzinga Mbandi, the warrior queen of Angola, who defied colonial powers and redefined leadership in the 17th century. The conversation begins with Vicky sharing her excitement about attending an event featuring notable personalities, including Lawrence Llewellyn Bowen. As they transition into the main topic, they explore Nzinga's early life, her upbringing as a strong and capable leader, and the socio-political landscape of Angola during her time. Vicky highlights Nzinga's strategic prowess, her resistance against Portuguese colonization, and her ability to negotiate peace treaties while maintaining her authority. The discussion also touches on her complex legacy, including her involvement in the slave trade and her innovative military tactics that inspired future generations of leaders.

    The episode emphasizes Nzinga's duality as a diplomat and a fierce warrior, showcasing her ability to navigate the patriarchal structures of her time. Vicky and Cara reflect on her lasting impact as a symbol of resilience and defiance, noting how her story continues to resonate in contemporary discussions about power and gender. The conversation concludes with a recognition of Nzinga's legacy, including her commemoration in modern culture and her status as a national hero in Angola.

    Keywords

    Nzinga Mbandi, warrior queen, Angola, Portuguese colonization, female leadership, guerrilla warfare, historical figures, resilience, women's history, African history

    Titles

    Nzinga Mbandi: The Warrior Queen Who Defied Empires
    Unyielding Spirit: The Legacy of Nzinga Mbandi

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Event Excitement
    04:57 Celebrating Family and Personal Plans
    10:09 Introducing Nzinga Mbandi
    19:56 Nzinga's Early Life and Training
    29:52 Nzinga's Rise to Power
    39:56 Military Tactics and Resistance
    50:05 Nzinga's Legacy and Modern Recognition
  • She Changed History

    49. Pamela Coleman-Smith: The Tarot Card Creator

    06/01/2026 | 36 mins.
    Keywords

    Pamela Coleman Smith, tarot, mysticism, cultural appropriation, art history, spirituality, women in art, Golden Dawn, suffragette, identity

    Summary

    This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Pamela Coleman Smith, an artist and mystic known for her work on the tarot deck that bears her name. The discussion explores her early life, artistic beginnings, and the influences that shaped her work, including her connections to mysticism and cultural appropriation. The hosts reflect on her theatrical career, her involvement with the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, and the impact of her art on contemporary spirituality. The conversation concludes with reflections on her recognition and the complexities of her legacy in the art world.

    Takeaways

    Pamela Coleman Smith was a multifaceted artist and mystic.
    Her life spanned significant historical events, including two world wars.
    She was influenced by both Swedenborgianism and Afro-Caribbean folklore.
    Smith's work included illustrations for over 20 books and theater designs.
    She created the most popular tarot deck in the world, yet received no credit.
    Her artistic style was influenced by the British Arts and Crafts Movement.
    Smith's life reflects themes of identity, belonging, and appropriation.
    She was involved in the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn but left due to its demands.
    Her later life included a shift towards Catholicism and community service.
    Smith's legacy is increasingly recognized, with calls to credit her in the tarot community.

    Titles

    The Mystical Life of Pamela Coleman Smith
    Art, Identity, and the Tarot: A Deep Dive

    Sound bites

    "This is a really interesting story."
    "She had such a diverse life."
    "It's really uncomfortable."

    Chapters

    00:00 New Year Reflections and Personal Updates
    03:05 Introducing Pamela Coleman Smith
    05:54 Early Life and Artistic Beginnings
    08:59 Theatrical Career and Spiritual Influences
    12:06 Exploring Mysticism and Cultural Appropriation
    15:00 The Golden Dawn and Artistic Expression
    17:58 The Tarot Deck and Its Legacy
    20:56 Later Life and Continued Influence
    34:02 Reflections on Recognition and Legacy

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About She Changed History

Join us on "She Changed History," as we celebrate the unsung heroines who dared to challenge the status quo.This is the history you wish you had learnt in school.Every Tuesday, Vicky, Cara and Simon dive deep into the annals of history, unearthing the stories of incredible women who have been forgotten.From daring pirates to prolific inventors, we're uncovering the truth behind their remarkable journeys.Tune in every Tuesday, starting 19th November 2024
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