Once Upon A Time In Black History

Tamara Shiloh

This educational podcast will inform listeners about notable African Americans who have made great contributions to the history of the United States and the world.

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69 episodes
Updated July 20

Episodes69

Newest first

July 20 · 8 min
Lonnie Johnson, Super Soaker.
How did a NASA engineer invent one of the most iconic toys in history? In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh explores the remarkable life of Lonnie Johnson, the brilliant inventor of the Super Soaker. From growing up in segregated Alabama to building an award-winning robot, working on NASA space missions, and accidentally creating the world's most famous water blaster, Johnson's story is one of curiosity, perseverance, and innovation. Discover how one inventor's imagination brought joy to millions while inspiring future generations to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Tune in to learn why Lonnie Johnson's greatest invention may be the inspiration he continues to provide.
July 6 · 9 min
Dr. Charles Drew, The Man Who Changed Blood Medicine
Who made modern blood banks possible? The answer is Dr. Charles Richard Drew, a pioneering physician, scientist, and educator whose groundbreaking research transformed emergency medicine and has saved millions of lives around the world. In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh explores the extraordinary life of the man known as the "Father of the Blood Bank." From overcoming racial barriers to revolutionizing the collection, storage, and transportation of blood plasma during World War II, Dr. Drew's scientific achievements forever changed the practice of medicine. You'll also learn how he courageously challenged racial discrimination in healthcare, mentored a new generation of Black physicians, and left behind a legacy that continues to save lives every day. Join us for the inspiring story of a medical pioneer whose brilliance, integrity, and compassion changed history—one life at a time. Visit Multicultural Bookstore & Gifts at www.multiculturalbookstore.com for books and resources celebrating Black history, culture, and the remarkable people who shaped our world. #BlackHistory #CharlesDrew #BloodBank #MedicalHistory #BlackExcellence #AfricanAmericanHistory #STEM #CivilRights #Podcast #HistoryPodcast
June 15 · 12 min
Abe Hawkins: The Black Prince of American Horse Racing
Known as The Black Prince and The Slayer of Lexington, Abe Hawkins rose to become one of the most celebrated jockeys in 19th-century America. He defeated the greatest horse of his era, helped revolutionize riding techniques, and achieved national fame despite living under slavery. In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh explores the remarkable life of a man whose talent, courage, and determination changed American horse racing forever—and whose legacy is finally receiving the recognition it deserves. #BlackHistory #AbeHawkins #HorseRacingHistory #BlackJockeys #KentuckyDerbyHistory #AfricanAmericanHistory #SportsHistory #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #TamaraShiloh #HiddenFiguresInHistory #AmericanHistory #BlackExcellence #RacingLegends #EquestrianHistory #HistoryPodcast
June 2 · 8 min
The Sound of Innovation: The Life of James Edward West
Some inventions change the world quietly. A voice on a phone call. A hearing aid helping someone reconnect with conversation. A microphone capturing music, memories, and history. Behind many of these everyday moments is James Edward West, an inventor whose groundbreaking work transformed the way we hear and communicate. In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, discover how a curious young boy from segregated Virginia became one of the most influential inventors of the modern age, earning more than 250 patents and helping millions of people hear the world more clearly. His story is a powerful reminder that innovation can come from anywhere—and that perseverance can turn obstacles into opportunity. #BlackHistory #JamesWest #BlackInventors #STEM #AfricanAmericanHistory #Innovation #ScienceHistory #Engineering #InventorsHallOfFame #HearingAids #MicrophoneTechnology #BlackExcellence
May 19 · 5 min
Breaking Barriers at NASA: The Inspiring Journey of Mary Jackson
In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, Tamara Shiloh shares the inspiring story of Mary Jackson — the first Black female engineer at NASA. From overcoming segregation in Hampton to helping shape America’s space program alongside Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson’s journey is a powerful reminder that courage and determination can change history. Inspired by the story featured in Hidden Figures. Visit Multicultural Bookstore for more inspiring stories. #MaryJackson #HiddenFigures #BlackHistory #NASA #WomenInSTEM #BlackExcellence #KatherineJohnson #STEM #SpaceHistory #HistoryPodcast
May 5 · 6 min
Marie Clark Taylor: Lighting the Way in Plant Science
In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh highlights the groundbreaking legacy of Marie Clark Taylor—a pioneering scientist who transformed how we understand plant growth. From her early curiosity in Pennsylvania to becoming the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. in botany from Fordham University, and later chairing the Botany Department at Howard University, Taylor broke barriers at every turn. Discover how her innovative teaching methods—and her early use of television in science education—helped bring learning to life for generations of students. #MarieClarkTaylor #BlackHistory #WomenInSTEM #Botany #ScienceEducation #HiddenFigures #BlackExcellence #STEMEducation #AfricanAmericanHistory #EducationalInnovation #PlantScience #HistoryPodcast #WomenInScience #HowardUniversity #FordhamUniversity
April 20 · 5 min
The Man Who Made Ice Cream Easy: The Genius of Alfred L. Cralle
In this episode, discover the story of Alfred L. Cralle, the brilliant mind behind the modern ice cream scoop. At a time when serving ice cream was messy and frustrating, Cralle’s clever invention in 1897 made it आसान, clean, and efficient with a simple one-handed mechanism. Despite facing barriers that prevented him from fully benefiting from his invention, his impact is still felt today in every scoop. Tune in for a sweet and inspiring story of creativity, perseverance, and innovation—and don’t forget to visit MulticulturalBookstore.com for more stories that bring history to life. #BlackHistory #BlackInventors #AlfredCralle #IceCreamScoop #HiddenFigures #BlackExcellence #HistoryPodcast #STEMHistory #Innovation #DidYouKnow #Inventors #AfricanAmericanHistory #EverydayInventions #PodcastLife #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory
April 6 · 8 min
Dr. Gladys West and the Map of the World
In this inspiring episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh shares the remarkable story of Dr. Gladys Mae Brown West—a brilliant mathematician whose groundbreaking work helped shape the GPS technology we rely on every day. From her humble beginnings on a farm in rural Virginia to becoming a pioneering computer programmer for the U.S. military, Dr. West’s journey is one of perseverance, precision, and quiet excellence. Listeners will discover how her mathematical models of the Earth’s shape became essential to satellite navigation, even as her contributions went largely unrecognized for decades. This episode highlights not only Dr. West’s scientific achievements, but also her resilience in the face of limited opportunities, her lifelong commitment to education, and the legacy she leaves behind as one of the “hidden figures” of modern technology. Tune in to learn how one woman’s dedication to “getting it right” helped map the world—and continues to guide us today. Visit www.multiculturalbookstore.com for more stories that celebrate history, creativity, and innovation. Once Upon a Time in Black History—where stories of the past inspire the future.
March 23 · 7 min
Sarah Rector – The Richest Black Girl in America
In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh shares the extraordinary true story of Sarah Rector, a young girl whose life changed in ways no one could have imagined. Born in 1902 in what would become Oklahoma, Sarah was given land that many believed was worthless. But at just 11 years old, everything changed when oil was discovered beneath her property—transforming her into one of the wealthiest young people in America almost overnight. Sarah’s story is about more than sudden wealth. It reveals the complexities of race, identity, and opportunity in early 20th-century America, including the shocking moment when the government reclassified her race because of her fortune. Through triumph, challenge, and generosity, Sarah Rector’s life reminds us that value isn’t always visible on the surface—and that history is filled with stories that continue to inspire us today. Tune in for a powerful story of resilience, unexpected opportunity, and a legacy that still fascinates generations. Visit www.multiculturalbookstore.com to explore more inspiring stories celebrating multicultural voices and history. #SarahRector #BlackHistory #BlackHistoryMonth #AfricanAmericanHistory #HiddenFigures #RichestBlackGirl #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #HistoricalStories #InspiringHistory #MulticulturalBooks #BlackExcellence
March 10 · 7 min
Claudette Colvin: The 15-Year-Old Who Refused to Give Up Her Seat
Before Rosa Parks made history, a brave 15-year-old girl named Claudette Colvin refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh shares the powerful and often overlooked story of Claudette’s courageous stand in 1955 and how it helped lead to the court case that ended bus segregation. Discover how one young voice helped move the Civil Rights Movement forward. Visit www.multiculturalbookstore.com for books celebrating diverse history and inspiring stories. #ClaudetteColvin #BlackHistory #CivilRightsMovement #HiddenFigures #MontgomeryBusBoycott #BlackHistoryPodcast #WomensHistory #HistoryPodcast #JimCrow #EducationalPodcast
February 16 · 6 min
Andrew Jackson Beard: The Inventor Who Made Trains Safer
In this inspiring episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh shares the remarkable life story of Andrew Jackson Beard—a formerly enslaved man whose brilliance and determination forever changed railroad safety. Born into slavery in Alabama, Beard taught himself multiple trades and became an inventor who refused to accept the dangers around him as “just the way things were.” After losing a leg in a devastating railroad accident, he transformed his personal tragedy into purpose by creating the revolutionary Jenny Coupler—an automatic railroad car-coupling device that saved countless lives and helped pave the way for the Federal Safety Appliance Act. Beard’s legacy lives on through safer railroads, groundbreaking innovation, and his induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame. This episode explores how perseverance, curiosity, and creativity can turn pain into protection—and how one person’s idea can impact generations. #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #AndrewJacksonBeard #BlackInventors #BlackHistory #HiddenFigures #UnsungHeroes #AfricanAmericanHistory
February 2 · 4 min
Granville Woods: The Genius Who Kept Trains Talking
In this episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh explores the remarkable life of Granville Woods—a self-taught inventor whose brilliance helped transform railroad safety and modern communication. Born in 1856 during a time of extreme racial barriers, Granville Woods never let limited access to formal education stop him. Through curiosity, hands-on learning, and relentless experimentation, he became a pioneer in electrical and communication technology. His groundbreaking inventions allowed moving trains to communicate with one another and with stations, dramatically reducing accidents and improving efficiency. Often called “The Black Edison,” Woods earned more than 60 patents and fought tirelessly to receive credit for his work in the face of discrimination. From safer rail travel to advances in long-distance communication, his legacy still shapes the connected world we live in today. Tune in to learn how Granville Woods proved that innovation has no limits—and why his story still matters. #GranvilleWoods #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackInventors #BlackHistory #STEMHistory
Dec 22, 2025 · 5 min
Harriet Tubman: The Bravest Guide on the Underground Railroad
Born into slavery, Harriet refused to believe that her life was meant to be lived in chains. After escaping to freedom herself, she made a bold and dangerous choice: she went back. Again and again. As a conductor on the Underground Railroad, Harriet guided enslaved people through darkness, forests, rivers, and fear—using the North Star, secret songs, and unwavering faith to lead them to freedom. You will learn how Harriet carried out daring nighttime rescues, completed around 13 missions, and safely guided nearly 70 people to freedom—without ever losing a single passenger. We also explore her role during the Civil War, where she became the first woman in U.S. history to plan and lead an armed military rescue during the Combahee River Raid. This episode isn’t just about history—it’s about bravery, leadership, and believing in the power of one determined person to change the world. Harriet Tubman shows us that courage doesn’t mean being fearless; it means moving forward even when fear is present. #HarrietTubman #UndergroundRailroad #FreedomFighter #AmericanHistory #BlackHistoryHeroes #AfricanAmericanHistory #CivilWarHistory #HiddenHistory #TrueHero #HistoryMatters
Dec 8, 2025 · 7 min
Thomas Fuller — The African Mathematical Genius
In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, we explore the extraordinary life of Thomas Fuller, the enslaved West African man known as “The Virginia Calculator.” Kidnapped at 14 and denied any formal education, Fuller astonished everyone with his ability to perform massive calculations entirely in his mind. Abolitionists later tested him with enormous math problems to disprove racist beliefs about African intelligence. Fuller solved them instantly, even correcting the testers when they forgot to count leap years. His brilliance became undeniable evidence that genius is not limited by race, circumstance, or access to schooling. Join us as we honor Thomas Fuller’s legacy and celebrate his remarkable contribution to history. Find more stories at multiculturalbookstore.com. #ThomasFuller #VirginiaCalculator #BlackHistory #AfricanGenius #HiddenFigures #MentalMath #AfricanHistory #BlackExcellence #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #HistoryPodcast #STEMHistory #AbolitionistHistory #MathematicalGenius #WestAfricanHistory #UnsungHeroes
Nov 17, 2025 · 6 min
Phillip Bell Downing: The Man Behind the Mailbox
In this episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History, Tamara Shiloh uncovers the story of Phillip Bell Downing — the African American inventor who transformed communication with his secure, weather-proof “street letter box.” Discover how a simple idea from a determined postal worker in the 1890s made sending mail safer, more accessible, and more reliable for everyone. Downing’s invention still stands on street corners today, quietly shaping how we connect. Tune in and be inspired by the brilliance behind the everyday blue mailbox. #BlackHistory #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #PhillipDowning #BlackInventors #AfricanAmericanHistory #STEMHeroes #HiddenFigures #HistoryPodcast #InnovationHistory #PostalServiceHistory #EverydayInventors #19thCenturyHistory #UnsungHeroes #TamaraShiloh #EducationalPodcast
Nov 4, 2025 · 8 min
A Mirror to the Future: The Valerie Thomas Story
In this episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh shines a light on Valerie L. Thomas, the brilliant mind behind NASA’s “Illusion Transmitter” — a groundbreaking invention that paved the way for 3D imaging technology. From her childhood curiosity in Baltimore to becoming one of NASA’s most innovative scientists, Valerie’s journey is one of persistence, imagination, and quiet revolution. As one of the few women—and even fewer Black women—in physics during the 1960s, she not only helped translate satellite data into vital Earth imagery but also reimagined how humans could see and share information. Discover how Valerie’s creativity helped shape the world of imaging—on Earth and beyond—and how her legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists and dreamers alike. #ValerieThomas #BlackWomenInSTEM #NASA #3DImaging #STEMEducation #BlackHistory #WomenInScience #Innovation #IllusionTransmitter #TamaraShiloh #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory
Oct 20, 2025 · 4 min
J.W. Smith: The Spark Behind the Sprinkler Revolution
In this episode, we celebrate the ingenuity of J.W. Smith—also known as Joseph H. Smith—the African-American inventor who transformed home gardening with the creation of the modern lawn sprinkler. In 1897, Smith patented the first rotary head lawn sprinkler, a simple yet revolutionary device that made watering lawns more efficient and accessible for homeowners and gardeners alike. Discover how Smith’s invention not only saved time, effort, and water but also became a staple in homes, parks, and gardens across America. Though much of his personal story remains untold, his innovation stands as a testament to the creativity and perseverance of Black inventors whose contributions continue to shape our everyday lives. 🎧 Tune in to learn how one man’s idea changed the way we care for our lawns—and helped make our communities greener, one invention at a time. #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #TamaraShiloh #BlackInventors #JWSmith #JosephHSmith #LawnSprinkler #Innovation #BlackHistory #STEM #InventionsThatMatter #UnsungHeroes
Oct 6, 2025 · 5 min
Seneca Village: The Hidden Community Beneath Central Park
Before Central Park became the iconic green heart of New York City, a thriving community once stood there — Seneca Village, a settlement founded by free African Americans in the 1820s. In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh uncovers the story of this remarkable neighborhood — a place where Black families, along with Irish and German immigrants, built homes, churches, and schools, and created a safe, self-sustaining community in a time of deep racial inequality. Learn how Seneca Village gave its residents not only a home, but also the right to vote and a sense of dignity — until the city’s plan for Central Park brought it all to an end. Though erased for more than a century, the legacy of Seneca Village endures through the artifacts, stories, and memories that continue to resurface today. Join us as we rediscover this lost piece of history and honor the resilience of those who made Seneca Village a symbol of hope and self-determination. #BlackHistory #SenecaVillage #CentralPark #TamaraShiloh #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #HiddenHistory #NYCHistory
Sep 15, 2025 · 7 min
Fort Mose – America’s First Free Black Settlement
In this episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh takes us back to the 1700s and the remarkable story of Fort Mose—America’s first legally sanctioned free Black settlement. Just north of St. Augustine, Florida, Fort Mose offered freedom, safety, and community to those who escaped slavery in the British colonies and found refuge under Spanish rule. Discover how formerly enslaved Africans built lives as free men and women, defended their settlement with courage during war, and left behind a legacy that challenges the very foundation of slavery in America. From its beginnings in 1738 to its rediscovery centuries later, Fort Mose stands as a testament to resilience, hope, and the enduring fight for freedom. #FortMose #BlackHistory #AmericanHistory #AfricanAmericanHistory #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #TamaraShiloh #FirstFreeBlackSettlement #FloridaHistory #StAugustineHistory #SpanishFlorida #FreedomFighters #BlackMilitia #FranciscoMenendez #BloodyMose #HistoricFortMose #BlackHeritage #UntoldHistory #ResilienceAndHope #HiddenHistory #NationalHistoricLandmark
Sep 1, 2025 · 8 min
Patricia Cowings – The Baroness of Barf
In this episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh takes us into the world of space science with Dr. Patricia S. Cowings—the first African American woman trained as a scientist astronaut by NASA. Affectionately nicknamed the “Baroness of Barf,” Dr. Cowings revolutionized astronaut training by developing biofeedback techniques that helped astronauts conquer space motion sickness—one of the most dangerous challenges in orbit. From her upbringing in the Bronx to breaking barriers at NASA, Dr. Cowings’ journey is a story of brilliance, resilience, and determination. Discover how she turned skepticism into respect, opened doors for future scientists, and proved that education and perseverance can take you all the way to the stars. Join us as we celebrate the groundbreaking career of Patricia Cowings—scientist, pioneer, and trailblazer.

Once Upon A Time In Black History

Lonnie Johnson, Super Soaker.

Dr. Charles Drew, The Man Who Changed Blood Medicine

Abe Hawkins: The Black Prince of American Horse Racing

The Sound of Innovation: The Life of James Edward West

Breaking Barriers at NASA: The Inspiring Journey of Mary Jackson

Marie Clark Taylor: Lighting the Way in Plant Science

The Man Who Made Ice Cream Easy: The Genius of Alfred L. Cralle

Dr. Gladys West and the Map of the World

Sarah Rector – The Richest Black Girl in America

Claudette Colvin: The 15-Year-Old Who Refused to Give Up Her Seat

Andrew Jackson Beard: The Inventor Who Made Trains Safer

Granville Woods: The Genius Who Kept Trains Talking

Harriet Tubman: The Bravest Guide on the Underground Railroad

Thomas Fuller — The African Mathematical Genius

Phillip Bell Downing: The Man Behind the Mailbox

A Mirror to the Future: The Valerie Thomas Story

J.W. Smith: The Spark Behind the Sprinkler Revolution

Seneca Village: The Hidden Community Beneath Central Park

Fort Mose – America’s First Free Black Settlement

Patricia Cowings – The Baroness of Barf