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She Changed History

She Changed History

By: Cara Gardner Simon Hurley and Vicky Payne
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About this listen

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

© 2025 She Changed History
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Episodes
  • Podcast Update: She Changed History Moves to a Fortnightly Schedule
    Jun 17 2025

    In this update, Vicky announces a change in the release schedule for the 'She Changed History' podcast. Going forward, episodes will be released fortnightly to ensure high-quality storytelling about remarkable women whose stories are not widely known. The team is dedicated to delivering inspiring and exciting content that goes beyond mere recitation of facts, aiming to uplift and provide listeners with intriguing new facts to share. Thank you so much for your continued support and engagement. Please do suggest future episode topics through social media or email.

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    2 mins
  • 34. African History and Culture with Luke Pepera
    Jun 10 2025

    Exploring African History with Luke Pepera

    In this episode, Cara and Vicky welcome guest Luke Pepera, a Ghanaian-born, Oxford-educated historian and author of African History book 'Motherland.' Luke discusses his journey into African history and mythology, African American history, sharing insights about influential female figures and the rich oral traditions of the continent. The conversation highlights African queens like Injinga Mbande and Amanirenas, significant for their leadership and warrior roles. Luke also touches on his passion for storytelling, and how his work aims to broaden perspectives on African culture and history. The episode concludes with information on Luke's book and where to purchase it.

    https://www.waterstones.com/book/motherland/luke-pepera/9781398707368

    00:00 Introduction and Greetings
    00:43 Welcoming the First Guest: Luke Peper
    00:59 Diving into African History
    06:35 Luke's Journey into African History
    10:52 From Blogging to Publishing: The Making of 'Motherland'
    13:32 The Evolution of Storytelling and African Folklore
    18:45 Anansi: The Trickster's Journey Across Cultures
    22:40 The Role of Oral Storytelling in African Cultures
    27:02 Warrior Queens of Africa: Stories of Resilience and Power
    34:14 The Influence of African Female Figures in History
    42:00 Conclusion and Book Synopsis

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    44 mins
  • 33. Enheduanna: The Tortured Poet's Department
    Jun 3 2025

    Exploring the World's First Known Author: Enheduanna

    In this episode of 'She Change History,' hosts Cara and Vicky delve into the remarkable life and contributions of Enheduanna, the world's first known named author and poet. An ancient Taylor Swift if you will! Set against the backdrop of ancient Mesopotamia, they explore Enheduanna's role as a high priestess, her pioneering use of written language for storytelling, and her emotional and political influence. The episode also covers her temporary fall from grace, her eventual reinstatement, and the legacy of her literary works. With insights into Mesopotamian society, religion, and early innovations, this episode showcases the profound impact of one woman on the history of literature and beyond.

    Other eps mentioned Grace O'Malley and Octavia Butler

    Sources
    1 https://www.bbc.co.uk/culture/article/20221025-enheduanna-
    the-worlds-first-named-author
    2 TedEd video
    http://facebook.com/watch/?v=1258413257681012
    3 https://www.newyorker.com/books/page-turner/the-struggle-
    to-unearth-the-worlds-first-author
    4 She Who Wrote exhibition notes
    https://www.themorgan.org/blog/she-who-wrote-enheduanna-
    and-women-mesopotamia
    5 https://www.aramcoworld.com/articles/2022/was-
    enheduanna-the-worlds-first-author

    00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter
    01:04 Weekend Plans and Early Morning Adventures
    03:03 Ancient History: Setting the Stage
    04:00 Introducing Enheduanna: The First Author
    10:23 The Role of Women in Mesopotamia
    14:05 Enheduanna's Literary Contributions
    19:34 The Roaring Storm: A Passionate Priestess
    20:46 Mesopotamian Marvels: Gods and Warriors
    22:04 The First Comic Book: Ishtar's Story
    23:23 Exile and Return: Anana's Desert Journey
    26:48 Rediscovering Anana: From Ancient Texts to Modern Translations
    28:49 The Legacy of Anana: Literature and Humanity
    35:47 Fun Facts and Final Thoughts

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    39 mins
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