Our Ancestors Were Messy

Host Nichole Hill shares how listeners can support the show and a sneak peek at next week's episode.To learn more about the show and keep in touch, check out https://ourancestorsweremessy.comTo access bonus content and support this independent production visit  https://ourancestorsweremessy.supercast.comTo stay in touch email ouranestorsweremessy@gmail.com or follow the show @ourancestorsweremessy on Instagram

In this engaging talk, Alicia Walters, an artist and writer known for her exploration of freedom, dives into the vibrant friendship between Zora Neale Hurston and Langston Hughes during their 1927 road trip. They discuss the importance of Black folklore, navigating Southern identity, and the artistic tensions within the Harlem Renaissance. Alicia highlights how their differing perspectives shaped their work and reflects on the broader themes of heritage and ambition, all while celebrating the rich cultural traditions that define Black identity.

Host Nichole Hill shares a research tip, updates for the Household aka the donor community, where to find bonus material, and a sneak peek at next week's episode.To learn more about the show and keep in touch, check out https://ourancestorsweremessy.comTo access bonus content and support this independent production visit  https://ourancestorsweremessy.supercast.comTo stay in touch email ouranestorsweremessy@gmail.com or follow the show @ourancestorsweremessy on InstagramTHE A-TEAMThe show is hosted by Nichole Hill (https://www.nicholelhill.com/)Executive Producer A.A. HernandezStory Producer Martina Abrahams Ilunga (@m_tina)Research Producer Chioke I'Anson (https://www.chiokeianson.com/)Story Editing by Shonte Hill Show art by Aseloka Smith (@naturallyherown)  BONUS STORYTo access the bonus story check out this article: Black history emerges from 1897 time capsule. Episodes release bi-weekly. 

Nichole, Zakiya and Emmanuel read three drama-filled love stories from historic Black newspapers and select the one that they believe could stand the test of time. Starring Zakiya Gibbons and Emmanuel Dzotsi.Support this independent production and access bonus content at https://ourancestorsweremessy.supercast.comStay in touch at ouranestorsweremessy@gmail.comFollow the show on Instagram at @ourancestorsweremessyFollow the show on TikTok at @ourancestorsweremessyLearn more about the show at https://ourancestorsweremessy.comListen on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@OurAncestorsWereMessy SOURCESSupport the reporting done by the legendary Oklahoma Eagle still in print today!Check out The Colorado Statesman, archived at the Library of Congress.

Host Nichole Hill shares listener mail, an update for the Household aka the donor community, and a sneak peek at next week's episode.To learn more about the show and keep in touch, check out https://ourancestorsweremessy.comTo access bonus content and support this independent production visit  https://ourancestorsweremessy.supercast.comTo stay in touch email ouranestorsweremessy@gmail.com or follow the show @ourancestorsweremessy on InstagramTHE A-TEAMThe show is hosted by Nichole Hill (https://www.nicholelhill.com/)Executive Producer A.A. HernandezStory Producer Martina Abrahams Ilunga (@m_tina)Research Producer Chioke I'Anson (https://www.chiokeianson.com/)Story Editing by Shonte Hill Show art by Aseloka Smith (@naturallyherown)    Episodes release bi-weekly. 

At the turn of the century, Oscar Micheaux - a dreamer from Smallville - makes his way to the big city searching for fame, fortune...and a change to his single status! What he finds is a wife he loves, a father-in-law he hates, and a path into Black history he could have never imagined. Starring Dr. Ray Christian.Support this independent production and access bonus content at https://ourancestorsweremessy.supercast.comStay in touch at ouranestorsweremessy@gmail.comFollow the show on Instagram at @ourancestorsweremessyFollow the show on TikTok at @ourancestorsweremessyLearn more about the show at https://ourancestorsweremessy.comListen on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@OurAncestorsWereMessy  SOURCESThe Conquest: The Story of a Negro Pioneer by Oscar MicheauxOscar Micheaux Homestead National Historical Park, Pullman National Historic Park, National Park ServiceSully County Black Homesteader Community, Homestead National Historical Park, National Park ServiceOscar Micheaux, NAACPOscar Micheaux: The Superhero of Black Filmmaking"The life and times of Oscar Micheaux" by Mary Beth Roderick for the Southern IllinoisanCheck out The Chicago Defender digitized and stored at The Library of CongressRead the archives at The Chicago Defender Archives.

Host Nichole Hill shares a programming note, a thank you, and a sneak peek at next week's episode.To learn more about the show and keep in touch, check out https://ourancestorsweremessy.comTo access bonus content and support this independent production visit  https://ourancestorsweremessy.supercast.comTo stay in touch email ouranestorsweremessy@gmail.com or follow the show @ourancestorsweremessy on InstagramTHE A-TEAMThe show is hosted by Nichole Hill (https://www.nicholelhill.com/)Executive Producer A.A. HernandezStory Producer Martina Abrahams Ilunga (@m_tina)Research Producer Chioke I'Anson (https://www.chiokeianson.com/)Story Editing by Shonte Hill Show art by Aseloka Smith (@naturallyherown)    Episodes release bi-weekly.  

Jonquilyn Hill, a writer and commentator, joins to delve into a Victorian-era love triangle that captivated Washington's elite. The discussion explores Lulu Francis, a fashion-forward heroine, and her romantic entanglements, alongside class tensions in the Black community. They analyze William Chase’s impact with The Washington Bee, a publication notorious for its scandalous gossip, and the consequences that followed Lulu's dramatic elopement. With humor and insight, they reflect on how history's messy entanglements echo in today's social dynamics.

Dive into the gossip and drama of our ancestors! Explore a scandalous feud between Azalea and Ida B. Wells, revealing the juicy underbelly of historical rivalries. Relish a theatrical Christmas Eve wedding that left tongues wagging. Engage in a spirited debate over the appeal of Du Bois vs. Washington among the youth. Plus, discover the importance of embracing our ancestors' messiness for valuable life lessons. This captivating journey takes you through the lively world of historical Black newspaper narratives!