More Than A Muse

Why are we so obsessed with fictional monsters? From brooding vampires to misunderstood beasts, women have long been drawn to characters who are dangerous, misunderstood, and just a little monstrous. In this episode of More Than A Muse, Stauney and Sadie explore the psychology and cultural expectations behind our love for monster romance, from Beauty and the Beast to Twilight and the rise of dark romance. Together, they unpack the appeal of contained power, the fantasy of being loved by someone the world misunderstands, and why the most compelling monsters are the ones who choose tenderness over violence. What does our attraction to fictional monsters reveal about the way we understand masculinity, beauty, empathy, and desire? And why are women so often expected to be beautiful to be loved, while male monsters get to be complex? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 discourse, we explore what happens when men mistake admiration for ownership and a woman’s autonomy for something they have the right to control. Why does being “nice” so often come with strings attached? And what happens when a woman refuses to play the role someone else has written for her? We’re breaking down horror’s modern “nice guys” and the unsettling cultural realities hiding behind their fictional stories. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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, morally messy survivors of modern horror. Along the way, they unpack the rules women were once expected to follow to make it to the end: be observant, responsible, resourceful, and, perhaps most importantly, sexually restrained.But what happens when those rules start to change? From Halloween and Friday the 13th to A Nightmare on Elm Street, Scream, You’re Next, and Ready or Not, the Final Girl has evolved from the virtuous survivor into something much more complicated: a woman who can be angry, sexual, traumatized, flawed, violent, even monstrous—and still be the one we want to see survive. And ultimately, the question extends…

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 beneath all the sad songs is a bigger question: why does pop feel so much more human right now? Is the melancholy just a summer mood, or is it a reaction to an increasingly polished, algorithm-driven, AI-filled music landscape? Sadie and Stauney get into why artists seem to be leaning into messier, more vulnerable music, and whether all of this sadness might actually be pointing to a bigger shift in pop.Basically, why does everything sound a little sadder right now? And are we entering a new era of pop? Probably. Maybe. We’ll see. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at…

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 voice in the workplace.We explore the movement that inspired the film, including the women who organized through the 9to5 labor organization in Boston and Cleveland, and the Netflix documentary that tells their story. Then, we get into the making of the movie itself, from its journey to the big screen to Dolly Parton’s unforgettable film debut.And of course, we have to talk about that song. Dolly’s “9 to 5” became an instant classic, earning her a Grammy and becoming one of the most recognizable songs about working life ever recorded.From real-life workplace activism to one of Hollywood’s most iconic feminist comedies,…

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’s unlikely idea to the meaning behind the name Lilith, this is the story of what happens when women stop waiting for the industry to make room and instead build their own stage.And nearly 30 years later, that blueprint is still alive. Olivia Rodrigo’s Daisy Chain Fields brought the same spirit into a new era: pairing an all-women-forward lineup with nonprofits, women-owned vendors, surprise legends, and a whole lot of joy. Stauney and Sadie explore the connection between these two festivals and ask a bigger question: What happens when activism doesn’t have to be angry, inaccessible, or serious all the time — but can be…

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 look back at The Devil Wears Prada leads into a conversation about how women are portrayed in media and how that’s changed over time. They wrap up by zooming out to broader cultural trends and what they reveal about how audiences think, respond, and evolve. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 feel effortless while others are picked apart, and try to answer the question of whether or not we are holding women to a higher standard on one of the biggest stages in the world. From iconic moments to uncomfortable questions, this episode breaks down the festival that somehow manages to be both a launchpad and a microscope for modern pop culture. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 blurring the line between admiration and complicity. The conversation challenges simplistic ideas of guilt, innocence, and “canceling,” while examining how gender biases, cultural myths like the “suffering artist,” and systems of wealth and power shape who gets forgiven and who doesn’t. Ultimately, the episode invites listeners to confront their own values and boundaries, offering a nuanced, honest look at the contradictions of modern fandom and the personal ethics behind what—and who—we choose to support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at…

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 revenge albums of all time, we unpack how scandal, rage, and storytelling collide in pop culture. Along the way, we also revisit the surprisingly scrappy reality behind Hannah Montana’s reunion moment and the enduring mystery of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum art heist—the $500 million robbery that still hasn’t been solved—connecting it all through nostalgia, fame, and the stories that continue to shape how women are remembered. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 Selena Gomez: revealing how these digital outrage cycles distort perception and escalate drama to destructive levels. Tune in for a candid look at the viral age’s moral maze and learn practical ways to stay critical in a sea of sensationalism. The truth is more complex than the clips. Are we willing to see it? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 headlines, we examine how gendered expectations, tabloid culture, and public morality shape the narratives around these moments. Why do certain incidents become career-defining scandals for women, while men often escape with less scrutiny? Join us as we explore the double standards, media frenzy, and cultural fallout behind the scandals that captured the world’s attention. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 paparazzi-fueled car chase highlights the deadly stakes, while Britney Spears' breakdown and Amy Winehouse’s decline reveal the toxic cycle of public shaming. We discuss how societal obsession morphs into moral panic, shaming women for their appearance and behavior, and how social media intensifies these dynamics. This episode raises urgent questions about consent, privacy, and moral judgment, offering insights into how we can choose empathy over exploitation. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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, and who was punished for it? From studio audiences to national headlines, we unpack how media framing, cultural expectations, and gender bias influenced the way these women were seen and judged in real time. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 literature, and the nuances of adapting classic literature into film. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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, the balance between art and commerce, and the future of theater in a changing landscape. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 adaptation—Disney classics, modern reimaginings, and TV favorites like Bridgerton—keeps that hope alive, while subtly revealing changing societal values. Join us to explore how these stories shape identity, reinforce cultural ideals, and why, even after centuries, Cinderella’s message of endurance and transformation still feels so relevant today. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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" for preserving memories, and learn why slow hobbies like sourdough baking or knitting provide a meditative escape from global chaos. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 with masterpieces, orchids, and her own unapologetic flair. The conversation then turns to one of the most infamous art heists in history. With empty frames still hanging on the walls as Isabella demanded, the Gardner Museum stands as both a tribute to her legacy and a reminder of the thirteen stolen works that have never been recovered. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 reputation as a muse to geniuses, Alma’s own musical compositions reveal a woman striving to define herself within the confines of a male-dominated world. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 cultural beliefs surrounding witchcraft today. The hosts also reflect on the nature of creativity and how it can be perceived as otherworldly, linking it to the idea of witchcraft. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 Three Witches of Surrealism—Leonora Carrington, Remedios Varo, and Kati Horna—three visionary artists who fled war-torn Europe for Mexico and found creative freedom through mysticism and sisterhood. Together, they trace how the witch has transformed from a symbol of persecution into one of power, rebellion, and artistic magic. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 explore how modern witches from Sabrina to The VVitch reclaim that narrative, transforming symbols of persecution into emblems of autonomy and empowerment. Tune in for an enchanting discussion on what witches reveal about society’s relationship with women, power, and the magic of self-determination. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 Swift's latest work, all while reflecting on the broader impact of her music. Tune in for a lively discussion filled with personal reflections and a celebration of Taylor Swift's artistry. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 perceptions surrounding them, and the legacy they leave behind. Join Sadie and Stauney as they unravel the myths and realities of this captivating world, sharing personal anecdotes and pop culture insights along the way. Don't miss this deep dive into the world of showgirls, just in time for the new album release this Friday! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 circumstances surrounding her untimely death, and the enduring impact she left on the film industry. Join Sadie and Stauney as they celebrate Wood's contributions to cinema and discuss the parallels between her life and the challenges faced by women in the spotlight today. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 experiences, and how these dynamics play out in both fictional and real-world scenarios. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 enduring legacy she left behind. Don't miss this deep dive into the life of a true Hollywood legend! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 Ophelia drowning, which has become an enduring legacy of her character, capturing the haunting beauty and profound tragedy of her fate. Join us as we unravel the mystery and beauty of one of literature's most iconic figures (and discuss all things Taylor Swift). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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. Discover with us the stories behind her famous quotes and the personal struggles that shaped her unique voice. Tune in for an insightful journey into the life of one of the 20th century's most remarkable literary figures. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 implications on representation and diversity in visual media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 episode celebrates Sher-Gil's enduring influence and the vibrant legacy she left behind, along with the mystery of her early death. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on art, identity, and the power of creative expression. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 multiple languages, Connie's influence transcended borders and genres. Join us as we explore her enduring legacy, her impact on music history, and the resurgence of her song "Pretty Little Baby" in today's digital age. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 tradwife lifestyle. Join us as we navigate the pipelines leading women into this movement and question the authenticity of the online portrayals. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on feminism, societal expectations, and the pursuit of genuine fulfillment. The Rise and Fall of the Trad Wife | The New Yorker Tradwife Aesthetic: When Being the Beauvoirian Other Reemerges as a Social Media Trend | Blog of the APA No, You Are Not a Tradwife Just Because You Like to Cook or Crochet | by Charlie Brown | Bitchy | Medium Tradwives, stay-at-home girlfriends, and the dream of feminine leisure Trad Wives, MAHA, and the Women’s…

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 explore the many hurdles she faced, from ageism and sexism to her infamous feud with Joan Crawford, and how she still came out on top. Plus, we unpack the story behind the hit song “Bette Davis Eyes” and how it became an unlikely tribute to her unforgettable allure. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 reignited the theory that Shakespeare may have been a woman — possibly Emilia Bassano — and the heated responses that followed. Join us as we unpack the authorship debate, the knowledge embedded in the Bard’s work, and what it meant to be a female writer in the 16th century. Was Shakespeare a woman ahead of her time… or just a man with an incredible quill? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 discover how artists have used fashion to challenge norms, blur boundaries, and expand what it means to perform gender. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 explore the evolution of her artistry, her connection to surrealism (whether she liked it or not), her fight against fascism, and the cultural forces that both revered and misunderstood her. Join us as we meet the real woman behind the myth. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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, spectacle, and strength often masked a deeper story of exploitation, objectification, and resilience. Join us as we discover how, from sideshows to center stage, these women balanced performance and survival in a world that marveled at their existence while profiting off their bodies. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 longing: for love, for freedom, and for control over her own life and legacy. Join us as we break down her biggest hits, her influence on modern music, and why her story still matters today. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 everything we give up for it?" See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 might not be the move. Plus: our favorite recession pop anthems, what defines authentic pop in hard times, and if we can expect bangers alongside our bankruptcies the rest of this year. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 Academy Awards, Edith didn’t just stitch clothes—she shaped characters, crafted icons, and changed the way people were seen on screen. Tune in as we dive into her legendary career, her unexpected rise from Spanish teacher to studio insider, and how she built a brand of creative control in a male-dominated industry—one costume at a time. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 pits to swing bands to national television, Viola proved that talent has no gender — and no expiration date. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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-dominated studio system, we uncover the unsung labor that brought some of Disney’s most iconic films to life. We’re talking long hours, eye-straining detail, and the color charts that changed animation history. It's time these women got the spotlight they deserve. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 defied expectations at every turn, Altina made a spectacle of herself in all the best ways — shaping not just how we look, but how we see. Join us as we explore the bold vision of a woman who refused to stay in the lines — and made the world a little sharper because of it. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 tools of resistance and rage. These aren’t just stories of oppression—they’re blueprints for fighting back. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 sex strike, and the Mahsa Amini protests in Iran, join us as we examine the slogans that stirred crowds, the strategies that forced change, and the legacies that continue today. These protests weren’t footnotes in history—they were turning points. This is what happens when women revolt. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 towns, and the contagious laughter that spread like wildfire through a Tanzanian school. What do these strange episodes tell us about society’s perception of women, their emotions, and their bodies? And how have they shaped the way we talk about “female hysteria” today? Tune in as we dissect the psychology, the stigma, and the lasting impact of these mysterious and unsettling events. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 fueled the trials, exploring how societal anxieties and power struggles led to a frenzy of accusations, forced confessions, and executions. Beyond the 17th century, we also examine why Salem’s witch trials remain such a cultural touchstone, from their lasting impact on the perception of women’s power to their eerie parallels with modern-day moral panics.Join us as we dissect the fear, the spectacle, and the lasting legacy of one of history’s greatest injustices—because if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that witch hunts never really go out of style. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy…