Best Stauney Hansen Podcasts (2025)

1
Frida Kahlo: A Ribbon Around a Bomb 1:04:42

1d ago1:04:42

1:04:42

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 i…

1
She Ran Away With the Circus: Miss Lala, Lillian Leitzel, Mabel Stark and more. 55:05

8d ago55:05

55:05

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 Wa…

1
The Longing of a Queer Pop Star: Dusty Springfield 50:32

15d ago50:32

50:32

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 …

1
Is art worth everything we give up for it? with Stephanie Elizondo Griest 43:35

22d ago43:35

43:35

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 ov…

1
The Return of Recession Pop 39:47

1M ago39:47

39:47

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 pla…

1
The Most Awarded Woman in Hollywood: Edith Head 40:12

1M ago40:12

40:12

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 …

1
The Fastest Drummer in the World: Viola Smith 32:07

2M ago32:07

32:07

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 s…

1
The Inkers, Painters & Early Animators of Disney 56:56

2M ago56:56

56:56

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 an…

1
Sculpting Spectacles: Altina Schinasi 36:13

3M ago36:13

36:13

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 so…

1
Dystopian Heroines & the Rebellion of Rage 46:42

3M ago46:42

46:42

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 vo…

1
When Women Revolt 45:14

3M ago45:14

45:14

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 I…

1
Contagious Chaos: Women and the History of Mass Hysteria 1:04:45

3M ago1:04:45

1:04:45

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…

1
They Killed Women, Not Witches: The Salem Trials 54:30

4M ago54:30

54:30

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 misog…

1
Screaming, Crying, Throwing Hands: When Fans Fight Back—And Win 57:02

4M ago57:02

57:02

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 s…

1
Mic Drop: The Women Who Built Hip Hop 1:11:10

4M ago1:11:10

1:11:10

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…

1
Before Beyoncé took on Country: Linda Martell 45:33

4M ago45:33

45:33

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. Despi…

1
Words of the Heart: The History of Valentines & Love Letters 47:34

4M ago47:34

47:34

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. Whethe…

1
The Sci-Fi Author Who Predicted 2024: Octavia Butler 59:43

5M ago59:43

59:43

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 t…

1
Judy Garland: Worn Out by the Dream Factory 1:08:21

5M ago1:08:21

1:08:21

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 t…

1
The Basket, the Bags, and the Woman Behind it all: Jane Birkin 1:05:05

5M ago1:05:05

1:05:05

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 orig…

1
Nosferatu: Reimagining Death and the Maiden 44:35

5M ago44:35

44:35

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 an…

1
The Brontë Sisters: Wild Moors and Wuthering Words 1:21:16

8M ago1:21:16

1:21:16

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 c…

1
Echoes from the Beyond: The Fox Sisters and Victorian Deathcraft 1:08:24

8M ago1:08:24

1:08:24

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 …

1
Twisted Lullabies: Nursery Rhymes' Hidden Histories 1:04:52

9M ago1:04:52

1:04:52

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 d…

1
The Highest Paid Supermodel in the World: Suzy Parker 32:57

9M ago32:57

32:57

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 te…

1
The Supermodel Who Inspired Holly Golightly: Dorian Leigh 48:35

9M ago48:35

48:35

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 b…

1
Brushing Past the Boys’ Club: The Pre-Raphaelite Sisterhood 1:08:15

9M ago1:08:15

1:08:15

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, …

1
Elsa Schiaparelli: The Lost Luminary of Haute Couture 39:46

10M ago39:46

39:46

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 arti…

1
Not Here to Make Friends: How Reality TV Shapes (and Warps) Society 53:10

10M ago53:10

53:10

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 swor…

1
Honoring the Native Wilderness: Emily Carr 48:35

10M ago48:35

48:35

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 e…

1
Queen Mother of Black Dance: Katherine Dunham 40:42

10M ago40:42

40:42

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Sadie Anderson, Stauney Hansen

1
The Hitmaker Behind 60's Pop: Ellie Greenwich 42:58

11M ago42:58

42:58

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", …

1
Miscellaneous Musings: A Collection of Thoughts & News 52:36

11M ago52:36

52:36

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 substac…

1
The Visionary Behind Disney’s Whimsy: Mary Blair 31:55

12M ago31:55

31:55

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. Th…

1
Is it time for Miss America to Retire? 1:03:30

12M ago1:03:30

1:03:30

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 ta…

1
'It's My Party' Pop Princess: Lesley Gore 44:04

1y ago44:04

44:04

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 …

1
The Gay Pop Femininomenon: Chappell Roan, Peach PRC, Renee Rapp, Fletcher, MUNA & Boygenius 49:26

1y ago49:26

49:26

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), Peac…

1
Opera's Notorious Duelist: Julie d'Aubigny 38:08

1y ago38:08

38:08

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 hig…

1
Behind 'The Beatles' Part Two: Jane Asher, Linda Eastman, Maureen Cox and Barbara Bach 1:08:32

1y ago1:08:32

1:08:32

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 engageme…

1
Behind 'The Beatles' Part One: Yoko Ono, Pattie Boyd, Cynthia Powell & Olivia Arias 1:34:38

1y ago1:34:38

1:34:38

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'…

1
The World's Best Selling Woman Artist: Yayoi Kusama 46:56

1y ago46:56

46:56

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…

1
Puzzling Patriarchy: How Crosswords Overlook Women & Minorities 44:16

1y ago44:16

44:16

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 th…

1
Exotic Dancer turned 'Double' Agent: Mata Hari 58:12

1y ago58:12

58:12

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 th…

1
Sylvia Plath: The Original Tortured Poet 1:06:16

1y ago1:06:16

1:06:16

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…

1
The Members of The Tortured Poets Department: Clara Bow, Cassandra, and Diana of Ephesus 59:14

1y ago59:14

59:14

This week, Stauney and Sadie are indulging, and celebrating the release of a new favorite album. We HAD to do a recap on the latest Taylor Swift release and talk about how much we love it, as well as taking some time to appreciate some of the members of the Tortured Poets Department mentioned in her anthology. We discuss the criticism and different…

1
Songwriting for the Stars with Laura Veltz 55:51

1y ago55:51

55:51

This week Stauney and Sadie are honored to have Laura Veltz join us! Veltz is a four-time Grammy-nominated songwriter, known for her work with some of our generation's most notable artists, including Kelly Clarkson, Lady A, Maren Morris, Demi Lovato, Idina Menzel, and Dan & Shay. We discuss how she found her way into songwriting behind the scenes, …

1
Give Me Back My Girlhood: The Path from Girls to Women 1:21:46

1y ago1:21:46

1:21:46

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 yea…

1
Unraveling 'The Yellow Wallpaper' The story of a women's descent into madness 39:40

1+ y ago39:40

39:40

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 plig…

1
Pages to Playlists: Feminine Rage in Literature and Music 1:09:16

1+ y ago1:09:16

1:09:16

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 through…

1
The Sound of Feminine Rage with 'The New Nine' Emily Treadgold 25:32

1+ y ago25:32

25:32

This week, Stauney and Sadie are joined by Emily Treadgold of 'The New Nine' to talk about the evolution of rage within women's music and the state of it today. Emily shared some of the songs and artists that stand out to her the most about feminine rage and also shared her thoughts on the music industry today, and her personal feelings about femin…

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