More Than A Muse
More Than A Muse is a weekly podcast that explores the lives of women artists, musicians, writers, and sculptors. Hosts Stauney Hansen, a graphic designer, and Sadie Anderson, a singer-songwriter, reframe art history and pop culture through a feminist lens every Monday. Through in-depth historical discussions and pop culture chats, they spotlight unsung heroines and challenge the status quo. The show aims to empower women to be educated, unapologetically angry, and to champion those whom history has forgotten.
Episodes
The Horror of the Nice Guy: When Love Becomes Control
The scariest men aren’t always the ones who look like monsters. Sometimes, they’re the ones who insist they’re nice. In this episode of More Than A Muse, Sadie and Stauney unpack how obsession, entitlement, and control disguise themselves as love in Obsession, Companion, and Don’t Worry Darling. From weaponized technology and AI girlfriends to incel culture and the male loneliness discour
Who Gets to Survive? The Final Girl & How Horror Decides Which Women Live, Die, and Deserve It
Who gets to survive the horror story? The Final Girl was never just the last woman standing—she reflected what society believed a “good” woman should be and what made her worthy of survival. In this episode of More Than A Muse, Stauney and Sadie trace the Final Girl's evolution from Laurie Strode and Sally Hardesty to Sidney Prescott, Erin, Grace Le Domas, and the complicated, angry, mora
You Seem Pretty Sad for the Song of the Summer
The pop girls are sad, the summer anthems are melancholy, and somehow we’ve all ended up in our feelings. Sadie and Stauney unpack the strange emotional shift happening in pop this year, from hints of Taylor Swift’s cryptic new era to the “song of the summer” debate, Olivia Rodrigo’s breakup album, Gracie Abrams’ Daughter from Hell, and the long-awaited return of Phoebe Bridgers.But benea
ENCORE: Working 9 to 5: How a Women’s Movement Became a Pop Culture Phenomenon
What happens when working women decide they have had enough?In this episode, we’re clocking in for a deep dive into 9 to 5, the beloved 1980 comedy starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton. More than just a hit movie, 9 to 5 was rooted in the real-life experiences of working women who organized in the 1960s and 1970s to fight for better working conditions, equal treatment, and a
Daisy Chain Fields Is Bringing Back Lilith Fair
Women didn’t just take the stage at Lilith Fair; they changed who the music industry believed belonged there. Stauney and Sadie dive into the festival that pushed back against the “one woman per bill” mentality, became a massive commercial success, raised millions for women’s charities, and still exposed some of the complicated contradictions of feminism in the ’90s. From Sarah McLachlan’
A Little Bit of Everything: Beyoncé, Janet Jackson, and more.
In this episode, Sadie and Stauney cover a mix of current and nostalgic pop culture moments. They start with Olivia Rodrigo’s new song, then get into Coachella again, comparing Lana Del Rey’s minimal performance style with the expectations placed on artists like Justin Bieber. They also revisit Janet. by Janet Jackson and Homecoming by Beyoncé, talking through their cultural impact. A loo
Coachella: Same Stage, Different Standards
In this episode, Sadie and Stauney trace its evolution from Pearl Jam’s anti-Ticketmaster rebellion to the glittering, influencer-filled spectacle it is today. Along the way, they unpack the performances that defined the desert stage—from Beyonce's boundary-pushing performance to the wildly different energies of Sabrina Carpenter and Justin Bieber.We also discuss why some performances fee
Can We Separate Art from the Artist?
In this episode, Sadie and Stauney explore the moral dilemma of loving art created by deeply flawed or even abusive individuals, asking whether it’s truly possible—or ethical—to separate the art from the artist. Drawing on insights from Claire Dederer’s Monsters: A Fan’s Dilemma, they unpack how fandom, overconsumption, and social media intensify our emotional ties to creators, often blur
Montana, Monica, and Morissette
In this episode, Stauney and Sadie dive into the cultural aftershocks of the Clinton–Lewinsky scandal and the raw, cathartic power of Alanis Morissette’s iconic album Jagged Little Pill—two moments that helped define how the ’90s talked about women, anger, and public shame. From the media treatment of Monica Lewinsky to the way Morissette turned heartbreak into one of the most influential
From Tabloids to TikToks
In this episode, Sadie and Stauney dissect the dark side of TikTok’s impact: the pile-ons, echo chambers, and the skewed justice that often leaves public figures, especially women, unfairly villainized. They break down iconic cases like Johnny Depp vs. Amber Heard, Olivia Rodrigo vs. Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Baldoni vs. Blake Lively, and the notorious beef between Hailey Bieber and Selen
Scandal Double Standards: The Unequal Price of Public Spectacles
In this episode, we unpack the cultural spectacle of the female celebrity scandal and ask why women are so often judged differently when the spotlight turns harsh. From Janet Jackson’s infamous Super Bowl “wardrobe malfunction” to Winona Ryder’s highly publicized shoplifting arrest, we revisit some of the most talked-about media controversies of the past few decades. Looking beyond the he
The Paparazzi Machine: How the Media Hunts, Breaks and Profits from Women
In this episode, we delve into the dark world of paparazzi culture and its devastating impact on celebrities like Princess Diana, Britney Spears, Amy Winehouse, and Kristen Stewart. From the origins in 1950s Rome to today's digital age, we explore how relentless photographers invade private moments, turning personal struggles into public spectacles. The tragic death of Princess Diana in a
Trial By Talk Show: When Women are Prosecuted on Live Television
This episode, Stauney and Sadie, dive into the way the media has shaped and often distorted the stories of women in the public eye. We revisit unforgettable talk show moments with Monica Lewinsky, Whitney Houston, Tonya Harding, and Meghan Markle to look at what was really happening beneath the surface. Who controlled the narrative? Who was allowed to be messy, emotional, or complicated,
The Wuthering Heights Discourse
Welcome to our new monthly segment, "Cultural Canon," where we explore culturally significant movies and albums. This episode features a deep dive into the latest controversial film, "Wuthering Heights," and the iconic album, "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill." The hosts also discuss the cultural impact of Britney Spears' recent music catalog sale, the resurgence of millennial icons in lit
Who Gets to Be Roxie Hart? Stunt Casting in Chicago
In this episode, Stauney and Sadie explore the concept of stunt casting in theater, focusing in particular on the recent casting of Whitney Leavitt in Chicago. The conversation delves into the implications of using celebrities in theater, the history of stunt casting, and its impact on ticket sales and audience engagement. We discuss the ethical considerations surrounding stunt casting, t
A Cinderella Story: Every Era’s Favorite Fairytale
In this episode, we unpack why Cinderella’s core elements—hidden labor, transformation, and escaping unjust systems—resonate across cultures and eras. You’ll learn about the original Greek tale, the Chinese ‘Ye Shen’ story with the magical fish, and how Charles Perrault’s version introduced iconic features like the glass slipper, fairy godmother, and pumpkin carriage. We explore how each
TikTok is Going Analog (and so are we!)
In this episode, Sadie and Stauney explore the rising trend of analog hobbies that offer comfort and authenticity in a digital world. They delve into crafting, journaling, baking, and slow hobbies as antidotes to digital overload, sharing how these practices can be effortlessly incorporated into daily life. Discover the origins of scrapbooking and the brilliance of modern "junk journaling
The Woman Who Built a Masterpiece: Isabella Stewart Gardner
In this episode, Stauney and Sadie step inside the world of Isabella Stewart Gardner, the eccentric American collector who refused to play by Boston’s rules and built a museum that doubled as her personal artistic manifesto. They unpack Isabella’s life as a patron and tastemaker, her bold curatorial choices, and the unconventional vision behind Fenway Court—a Venetian-inspired home filled
The Scandalous Muse of Vienna: Alma Mahler
This week, Stauney and Sadie delve into the life of Alma Mahler—composer, muse, and one of the most controversial women of early 20th-century Vienna. We explore how her relationships with towering figures like Gustav Mahler, Oskar Kokoschka, Walter Gropius, and Franz Werfel intertwined art, love, and obsession in ways that shaped her creative identity and public legacy. Beyond her reputat
The Witch Hunt of Women in Music: From Coven to Beyoncé
In this episode of More Than A Muse, hosts Stauney and Sadie explore the fascinating intersection of witchcraft and pop culture, particularly in the music industry. They discuss various musicians who have been accused of witchcraft, including historical bands like Coven and contemporary artists like Beyoncé and Lady Gaga. The conversation delves into themes of hysteria, feminism, and the
The Three Witches of Surrealism: Leonora Carrington, Remedios Varo, & Kati Horna
In this episode of More Than a Muse, hosts Sadie and Stauney dive into the enduring allure of witches—both historical and modern. From Sadie’s recent trip to Salem and reflections on the infamous witch trials to conversations about how social media fuels today’s digital witch hunts, they explore the intersection of outrage, activism, and empowerment. The discussion also highlights the Thr
Season of the Witch: From Myth to Modern Feminism
In this episode of More Than a Muse, Sadie and Stauney take a deep dive into the spellbinding world of witches - from the dark myths that shaped them to the feminist icons they’ve become. They trace the roots of witchcraft through history, folklore, and literature, unraveling how stories of broomsticks, cauldrons, and curses often reflected fear of powerful, independent women. Then, they
The Life of a Showgirl: Is Taylor Swift unrelatable?
Join Sadie and Stauney on "More Than a Muse" as they dive into the much-anticipated release of Taylor Swift's 12th studio album, "Life of a Showgirl." In this episode, they explore the album's themes, discuss their initial reactions, and share insights from the official album release party. From favorite tracks to unexpected surprises, Sadie and Stauney offer a thoughtful analysis of Swif
Glamour and Grit: The Untold History of Showgirls
In this episode of More Than A Muse, hosts Sadie and Stauney dive into the fascinating history and cultural impact of showgirls. As they prepare for the release of "Life of a Showgirl," they explore the evolution of showgirls from their origins in Paris to their iconic status in Las Vegas. The discussion covers the glamorous yet grueling life of a showgirl, the stereotypes and cultural pe
Child Star and Hollywood Tragedy: Natalie Wood
In this episode of "More Than a Muse," hosts Sadie and Stauney delve into the life and legacy of Hollywood icon Natalie Wood. From her early days as a child star in "Miracle on 34th Street" to her acclaimed roles in "Rebel Without a Cause" and "West Side Story," Natalie Wood's career was marked by both triumph and tragedy. The hosts explore her complex personal life, the mysterious circum
The Eldest Daughter Effect
In this episode of "More Than A Muse," Sadie and Stauney dive into the intriguing concept of "Eldest Daughter Syndrome." They explore the pressures and expectations placed on eldest daughters through personal anecdotes and cultural references, from Disney's Elsa to real-life figures like Britney Spears. Join them as they discuss the impact of birth order on personality and life experience
Elizabeth Taylor: Violet Eyes & Seven Husbands
In this episode of More Than A Muse Podcast, hosts Sadie and Stauney dive into the fascinating life of Elizabeth Taylor. From her iconic roles in Hollywood to her tumultuous personal life, including her infamous seven husbands, Taylor's story is one of glamour, resilience, and reinvention. Join us as we explore her impact on the film industry, her groundbreaking work in AIDS activism, and
The Fate of Ophelia: The Art and Symbolism of a Tragic Muse
Today on More than a Muse, Stauney and Sadie talk all things Ophelia, a character whose symbolism and artistic representation have captivated audiences for centuries. In this episode, we explore the layers of meaning behind her tragic story, examining how artists and writers have interpreted her character through various lenses. A highlight is John Everett Millais' iconic painting of Ophe
The Poet Who Never Held Her Tongue: Dorothy Parker
This week on More than a Muse, join Stauney and Sadie as we delve into the fascinating life and works of Dorothy Parker, the iconic American poet, writer, and critic known for her sharp wit and keen observations.
From her early days at the Algonquin Round Table to her enduring legacy in literature, we explore Parker's most celebrated works and the impact she had on the literary world. Dis
The Problem with Shirley: Racism in Early Film Photography
This week on More Than A Muse, Stauney and Sadie explore the fascinating history of Shirley cards and their profound impact on film photography. This episode delves into how these reference cards, used for color balance in film processing, inadvertently contributed to racial bias by prioritizing lighter skin tones. Join us as we uncover the evolution of film technology and its implication
Paint, Passion and a Puzzling Death: Amrita Sher-Gil
Join Sadie and Stauney in this episode as they delve into the life and legacy of Amrita Sher-Gil, a pioneering figure in modern Indian art. Discover how her unique blend of Western and Indian influences shaped her groundbreaking work, and explore the cultural and historical contexts that informed her artistic journey.
From her early years in Hungary to her impactful return to India, this
The First Woman to Top the Charts: Connie Francis
In this episode, Stauney and Sadie delve into the remarkable journey of Connie Francis, a trailblazer in the music industry and the first woman to top the Billboard 100 chart. Despite facing numerous personal and professional challenges, Connie's resilience and talent propelled her to international stardom. From her early hits like "Who's Sorry Now" to her innovative recordings in multipl
The Tradwife Trap: Weaponizing Femininity
In this episode of "More Than a Muse," hosts Sadie and Stauney dive into the intriguing world of the "tradwife" movement. They explore the romanticization of traditional gender roles and the impact of social media influencers on this trend. From discussing the allure of domesticity to critiquing the notion of choice feminism, they unravel the complexities and contradictions within the tra
Bette Davis Eyes: The Fire & Feuds of a Hollywood Legend
This week, Stauney and Sadie are diving into the life and legacy of one of the most iconic—and uncompromising—women in Hollywood history: Bette Davis. From her early days battling the studio system to her legendary performances in All About Eve and Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?, Davis forged a path with talent, tenacity, and a stare that could stop anyone in their tracks.
Join us as we
ENCORE: Was Shakespeare a Woman?
This week, Stauney and Sadie dive into one of history’s juiciest literary conspiracy theories: Was Shakespeare… a woman?
For centuries, scholars have debated whether the man from Stratford-upon-Avon actually penned the world’s most famous plays — or if “William Shakespeare” was a pseudonym hiding someone else entirely. In this episode, we explore the provocative Atlantic article that reig
Wearing the Pants: The Long History of Cross Dressing
This week on More Than a Muse, Stauney and Sadie explore the rich history of cross-dressing in the arts—from ancient traditions to modern pop culture. From Shakespearean heroines and Mulan’s legendary disguise to drag, wartime subversion, and gender-bending on stage and screen, cross-dressing has long been a powerful tool for storytelling, survival, and self-expression. Join us as we disc
Frida Kahlo: A Ribbon Around a Bomb
In this episode, Stauney and Sadie dive deep into the extraordinary life and legacy of Frida Kahlo — the artist who turned her body, heartbreak, and political fire into radical self-portraiture. Frida's life was anything but ordinary, from her tragic accident at 18 to her iconic fashion, her tumultuous love story with Diego Rivera, and showing up in her bed at her gallery opening. We expl
She Ran Away With the Circus: Miss Lala, Lillian Leitzel, Mabel Stark and more.
In this episode, Stauney and Sadie step into the ring to uncover the stories of extraordinary circus women like Miss LaLa, the aerialist who defied gravity; Lillian Leitzel, whose daring acts made her a legend; strongwoman Katie Sandwina; tiger trainer Mabel Stark; the conjoined singers Millie and Christine McKoy, the lives of May Wirth, Lavinia Warren, Annie Jones and how their artistry,
The Longing of a Queer Pop Star: Dusty Springfield
Dusty Springfield was one of the most powerful voices in pop music—and one of the most complicated women behind the scenes. In this episode, Stauney and Sadie take a closer look at her career, her image, and the emotional weight of being a closeted queer woman in the spotlight. From her iconic sad ballads to her private struggles with identity and perfectionism, Dusty’s story is one of lo
Is art worth everything we give up for it? with Stephanie Elizondo Griest
Today we are joined by Stephanie Elizondo Griest as we discuss her up upcoming book "Art Above Everything: One Woman’s Global Exploration of the Joys and Torments of a Creative Life" releasing on June 10th. We discuss her background as a writer, the process of the book, the struggles that come with being a women and an artist, and of course, the overarching question "is art worth everythi
The Return of Recession Pop
This week, we’re diving into the origins of Recession Pop, the artists and songs that defined the genre, and the complicated question of whether this shiny, broke-girl aesthetic still works today. We explore what could make post-recession pop feel meaningful (mental health, real stakes, charitable impact) and when it just feels like rich people playing dress-up. Spoiler: Going to space mi
The Most Awarded Woman in Hollywood: Edith Head
She’s the woman with more Oscars than any other woman in history—and the inspiration behind a fictional character in The Incredibles. This week, Stauney and Sadie are talking about Edith Head, the powerhouse designer who ruled Hollywood’s wardrobe departments for decades with her signature bob, tinted glasses, and an iron fist. From dressing Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn to winning eight
The Fastest Drummer in the World: Viola Smith
Known as "the fastest girl drummer in the world," Viola shattered expectations in the 1930s swing scene, advocated for women musicians during WWII, and kept playing drums until she was 107 years old! In this episode, Stauney and Sadie dive into her groundbreaking career, her fearless fight for women’s place in music, and why her legacy deserves a standing ovation today.
From orchestra pi
The Inkers, Painters & Early Animators of Disney
Before the princesses ever graced the screen, women were behind the scenes—inking, painting, and perfecting every frame. In this episode, Stauney and Sadie dive into the dazzling yet demanding world of the Ink and Paint Department during Disney’s golden age. From the meticulous artistry of the Ink and Paint Girls to the trailblazing early female animators who carved a path in a male-domin
Sculpting Spectacles: Altina Schinasi
Before cat-eye glasses were a fashion staple, they were a radical act of design — and behind them was Altina Schinasi: sculptor, filmmaker, inventor, and unapologetic creative force. In this episode, Stauney and Sadie follow Altina’s kaleidoscopic life, from designing the iconic harlequin frame to creating politically charged art and championing social causes. A daughter of immigrants who
Dystopian Heroines & the Rebellion of Rage
In this episode of More Than a Muse, Stauney and Sadie explore the charged landscape of feminine rage and resistance through the lens of dystopian fiction and discover what happens when women are silenced, controlled, or underestimated. Join us as we explore how feminist dystopian fiction—The Handmaid’s Tale, Vox, The Power, and Red Clocks—turns voice, body, memory, and community into too
When Women Revolt
All throughout history, Women have ignited revolutions, challenged regimes, and reshaped societies through protest. In this episode, Stauney and Sadie explore ten powerful women-led uprisings that changed the world—each sparked by urgent demands for bread, peace, equality, or justice. From the March on Versailles and the Bread and Roses Strike to Iceland’s Women’s Day Off, the Liberian se
Contagious Chaos: Women and the History of Mass Hysteria
From mewing nuns to phantom slashers, history is filled with bizarre outbreaks of collective hysteria—many of which disproportionately affected or were led by women. In this episode, Stauney and Sadie unravel the eerie stories of mass panics throughout history: the frenzied dancers of the Middle Ages, the trembling hands of school girls, the unseen gassers that struck fear into entire tow
They Killed Women, Not Witches: The Salem Trials
In this episode, Stauney and Sadie unravel the dark, chaotic history of the Salem witch trials—one of the most infamous chapters of mass hysteria in history. What began as paranoia and superstition quickly spiraled into widespread persecution, with devastating consequences for the women (and even men) accused.We break down the tangled web of misogyny, racism, and religious extremism that
Screaming, Crying, Throwing Hands: When Fans Fight Back—And Win
In this episode, Stauney and Sadie dive into the unstoppable force that is fangirls—their influence, their impact, and their ability to shake entire industries. While often dismissed as overly emotional or obsessive, these fans have proven time and time again that their passion holds real power, from crashing Ticketmaster and reviving canceled TV shows to demanding change in music and med
Mic Drop: The Women Who Built Hip Hop
In this episode, Stauney and Sadie tune into untold stories of the women who helped build Hip Hop from the ground up. While the genre is often defined by its male icons, it was women like Cindy Campbell—who threw the legendary party that birthed Hip Hop—and Sylvia Robinson—who brought it to the mainstream—that made it all possible. We dive into the origins of the genre, from basement part
Before Beyoncé took on Country: Linda Martell
In this episode, Stauney and Sadie uncover the story of Linda Martell, a woman Beyoncé thanked for her album of the year win and the first Black female solo artist to perform at the Grand Ole Opry. She faced many barriers in country music, starting with a career in R&B before moving to the release of her groundbreaking album Color Me Country. Despite her talent and success, industry g
Words of the Heart: The History of Valentines & Love Letters
In this episode, Stauney and Sadie trace the history of Valentine’s Day, uncovering its murky origins and how it transformed from a saint’s feast day to a global celebration of romance. Then, we dive into the enduring art of love letters—who wrote them, how they shaped history, and what they reveal about the changing nature of relationships. Whether sealed with wax or sent with an emoji,
The Sci-Fi Author Who Predicted 2024: Octavia Butler
In this episode, Stauney and Sadie dive into Octavia Butler who didn’t just write sci-fi—she predicted our reality. Her work feels eerily prophetic from the rise of far-right extremism and “Make America Great Again” to climate change and wealth inequality. We explore how Butler, the first Black woman to gain prominence in sci-fi, used her writing to challenge power and imagine alternative
Judy Garland: Worn Out by the Dream Factory
In this episode, Stauney and Sadie dive into the life and legacy of the incomparable Judy Garland. They explore her rise from a vaudeville childhood to becoming one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars, reflecting on the immense pressure she faced to embody "the girl next door" and the devastating toll it took on her physical and mental health. From the studio’s control over her identity to
The Basket, the Bags, and the Woman Behind it all: Jane Birkin
In this episode, Stauney and Sadie dive into the life and legacy of the incomparable Jane Birkin. They explore her decades-long career as an actress and musician, reflecting on her iconic collaborations with Serge Gainsbourg and her enduring influence on art and culture. The duo also unpacks the fascinating story of the Birkin bag, tracing its origins from a chance encounter to become a g
Nosferatu: Reimagining Death and the Maiden
Welcome back! In this episode, Stauney and Sadie explore Robert Eggers' latest masterpiece, Nosferatu. They delve into the origins of the story with the iconic 1920s silent film, examine the creative changes that elevated the remake to its modern brilliance, and discuss the timeless "Death and the Maiden" motif as it weaves through both the film and art history. Plus, they reflect on how
The Brontë Sisters: Wild Moors and Wuthering Words
This week, as the last installment of our "Month of Macabre," Stauney and Sadie journey to the windswept moors of Yorkshire to uncover the haunting lives and works of the Brontë sisters—Charlotte, Emily, and Anne. Against the backdrop of a restrictive Victorian society, these sisters poured their passions and struggles into novels that challenged conventions and explored themes of love, r
Echoes from the Beyond: The Fox Sisters and Victorian Deathcraft
This week, to continue our "Month of Macabre", Stauney and Sadie explore the Victorian era’s obsession with death and its intricate mourning traditions—hair art, death portraits, and mourning dolls—all shaped by high mortality rates. Amid this fascination with the afterlife, we discuss the phenomenon of the Fox Sisters claiming to communicate with spirits and therefore sparking the rise o
Twisted Lullabies: Nursery Rhymes' Hidden Histories
This week, Stauney and Sadie introduce the dark origins of nursery rhymes. While these seemingly innocent songs have become a staple of childhood, many were born from grim histories of plagues, political unrest, and even tragedy. From "Ring Around the Roses," believed to reference the Black Death, to "Humpty Dumpty," originally a cannon that fell during battle, and "Mary, Mary, Quite Cont
The Highest Paid Supermodel in the World: Suzy Parker
This week, Stauney introduces us to Suzy Parker. As one of the most iconic faces of 1950s fashion and, at one point, the highest-paid supermodel in the world, Suzy Parker redefined the standards of beauty and fame. Not only did she dominate magazine covers and advertising campaigns, but she also became the first model to transition into film and television successfully. Suzy's influence e
The Supermodel Who Inspired Holly Golightly: Dorian Leigh
This week, Sadie introduces us to Dorian Leigh. Often hailed as one of the first true supermodels, Dorian Leigh not only defined an era of beauty and style but also inspired one of literature and film’s most iconic characters, Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany's. Beyond her captivating presence on magazine covers, Dorian's life was marked by tumultuous relationships and a pioneeri
Brushing Past the Boys’ Club: The Pre-Raphaelite Sisterhood
This week, Stauney and Sadie dive into the uncredited women who played pivotal roles during one of the biggest boys' clubs in art history: the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. We'll introduce you to trailblazers like Julia Margaret Cameron, Christina Rossetti, Evelyn De Morgan, Elizabeth Siddal, Marie Spartali Stillman, and Eleanor Fortescue-Brickdale, whose influence on the movement and beyon
Elsa Schiaparelli: The Lost Luminary of Haute Couture
This week, Stauney introduces us to one of Coco Chanel’s fiercest rivals and a name experiencing a resurgence in the fashion world: Elsa Schiaparelli. Stauney and Sadie dive into Schiaparelli's strict and unconventional upbringing, her tumultuous marriage to a con artist, her journey as a single mother, and her deep connections with surrealist artists of her time. They also explore the ri
Not Here to Make Friends: How Reality TV Shapes (and Warps) Society
This week, Sadie and Stauney dive into one of society's most debated pastimes: Reality Television. Whether you love or loathe it, there's no denying these shows' significant cultural footprint on our country. Reality TV has done it all—from sparking cultural trends to encouraging toxic behaviors—its influence on society is truly a double-edged sword, creating both connections and division
Honoring the Native Wilderness: Emily Carr
Emily Carr, one of British Columbia’s most celebrated painters, brought the vibrant spirit of Fauvism to North America, illuminating the deep artistic and cultural ties between the northern tribes and the landscapes of Canada and Alaska. This week on the show, Stauney introduces the remarkable Emily Carr, and together with Sadie, they explore her early years, the long journey to finding h
Queen Mother of Black Dance: Katherine Dunham
This week, Sadie introduces us to Katherine Dunham, famous for her anthropology research and introduction of tribal dance styles to the modern stage. We discuss her life, research, travels, accomplishments, and influence.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The Hitmaker Behind 60's Pop: Ellie Greenwich
This week, Sadie introduces us to Eleanor Greenwich, known as Ellie, who was the hit songwriter behind many of the greatest songs of the sixties pop charts. Stauney and Sadie discuss her life, the songwriting scene at the time, her undeniable talent and the mark she left on the music industry and pop culture itself with hits like "Da Doo Ron Ron", "Be My Baby", "Maybe I Know", "Then He Ki
Miscellaneous Musings: A Collection of Thoughts & News
This week, Stauney and Sadie are talking about their monthly hyper fixations including The Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders, the "born sexy yesterday" movie trope, Hannah Montana, Katy Perry's most recent music video, self-promotion on TikTok... and Lizzie Borden. Also this episode is a shameless self-promo for our newsletter that you can find on substack called "More Muse News." See Privacy Po
The Visionary Behind Disney’s Whimsy: Mary Blair
This week, Stauney introduces us to Mary Blair, best known for her concept art for Disney in the 60's. Sadie and Stauney discuss her work on Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, and Cinderella, as well as her unique art that led to murals, it's a Small World, and other distinct styles throughout the parks that still influence the art of Disney today. There isn't a lot known about her, but her
Is it time for Miss America to Retire?
This week, Stauney and Sadie are diving into a century-long institution today that has faced a myriad of controversies and scandals... The Miss America Pageant. After watching the Hulu documentary "The Secrets of Miss America," we wanted to spotlight the racism, sexism, body issues, and mental health that exist within this giant organization. We talk about the history, the problems, and t
'It's My Party' Pop Princess: Lesley Gore
This week, Sadie tells us all about Lesley Gore, the pop sensation in the 1960s with hits like "It's My Party" and "You Don't Own Me." As a teenager, her heartfelt voice and relatable songs made her famous. But she was more than just a singer; she was also a strong advocate for women's rights and a gay pop icon later in her life. Stauney and Sadie explore her journey from a young pop star
The Gay Pop Femininomenon: Chappell Roan, Peach PRC, Renee Rapp, Fletcher, MUNA & Boygenius
This week, Sadie and Stauney dive into the resurgence of gay pop and highlight the stars who are bringing it back into the mainstream. We explore how women's songs about women have evolved, and how the absence of the male gaze has paved the way for some of our all-time favorite artists. Join us as we introduce you to Chappell Roan (our queen), Peach PRC, Fletcher, Renee Rapp, MUNA, and Bo
Opera's Notorious Duelist: Julie d'Aubigny
This week, Stauney introduces us to the infamous and iconic Julie d'Aubigny. Also known as Mademoiselle Maupin, she was a remarkable figure in 17th-century France, celebrated for her exceptional talent as an opera singer and her prowess as a duelist. Stauney and Sadie discuss her young start to defying societal norms, mastering fencing, winning high-profile duels, and dressing in pants, a
Behind 'The Beatles' Part Two: Jane Asher, Linda Eastman, Maureen Cox and Barbara Bach
This week, Stauney and Sadie explore the second half of the women behind The Beatles. In part two of this episode, we delve into the focus on the women who supported The Beatles, often at great personal cost, and great criticism.We discuss Paul McCartney's first significant girlfriend, Jane Asher, an accomplished actress, and their broken engagement, and his first wife Linda Eastman, a ph
Behind 'The Beatles' Part One: Yoko Ono, Pattie Boyd, Cynthia Powell & Olivia Arias
This week, Stauney and Sadie explore the iconic muses behind the most famous band of all time: The Beatles. In part one of this episode, we delve into the band's early days and eventual breakup, touch on the global phenomenon of Beatlemania, and then focus on the women who supported The Beatles, often at great personal cost.We discuss John Lennon's first wife, art student Cynthia Powell,
The World's Best Selling Woman Artist: Yayoi Kusama
This week, Sadie introduces us to the best selling living woman artist in the world, Yayoi Kusama. With 90+ years of life focused on her artistic exploration inspired by a troubled childhood and hallucinations, she has built an empire beyond any explanation. Sadie and Stauney discuss her troubling beginnings, her artistic ideas being stolen by some of the most famous names of the 60's, an
Puzzling Patriarchy: How Crosswords Overlook Women & Minorities
This week, join Stauney and Sadie as they discuss the intricate history and inherent biases of the daily crossword puzzle. A staple of American leisure since the 1920s, the crossword has evolved significantly, reflecting shifts in societal norms and what's considered 'common knowledge.' Despite its enduring popularity, the puzzle often overlooks the experiences and contributions of women
Exotic Dancer turned 'Double' Agent: Mata Hari
This week, Stauney delves into the story of Mata Hari, a Dutch woman who rose to fame as a captivating exotic dancer and later became a prominent courtesan in France, only to be coerced into espionage during World War I. Stauney and Sadie discuss her tumultuous life, her romantic struggles, her remarkable career, and the tragic misrepresentation that ultimately led to her execution by fir
Sylvia Plath: The Original Tortured Poet
This week, Stauney explores the life and legacy of Sylvia Plath, a poet renowned not only for her poignant works that emerged around the time of her untimely death but also for her profound struggles with depression. Inspired by a TikTok that highlighted similarities between the imagery in Taylor Swift's latest album and Plath's poetry, Stauney and Sadie delve into Plath's artistic genius
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