More Than A Muse

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.

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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 the...

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...

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.

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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 po...

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 t...

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...

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 media.

We explore key moments in fan history, including how Beyoncé's country music era sparked a cultural conversation, the organized movements that resurrected beloved series, and the collective action that’s changed the way artists tour...

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 parties to block-wide movements, and spotlight 12 trailblazing women who shaped the genre: Sha-Rock, The Mercedes Ladies, Roxanne Shanté, Salt-N-Pepa, MC Lyte, Queen Latifah, Lauryn Hill, Lil' Kim, Foxy Brown, an...

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 gatekeeping and racism pushed her out of the spotlight, leaving her contributions largely forgotten. Join us as we explore her impact, the struggles of Black artists in country music, and h...

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, love letters can capture human connection like nothing else. Join us as we explore how humanity has written love throughout the ages.

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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 futures. Through her struggles with racism and the literary establishment, she built a more relevant legacy than ever. Join us as we unpack how Butler’s dystopian fiction became today’s world and her lasting legacy.

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 relentless work schedules and impossible standards, Judy’s story reveals the darker realities of Hollywood’s so-called "Dream Factory" and the human cost of its manufactured perfection.

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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 global symbol of wealth, exclusivity, and status—particularly in the United States. Join us as we celebrate Birkin’s artistic impact, examine how her name became synonymous with luxury, and discuss what the cultural obsession with...

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 Eggers’ signature style breathes new life into this haunting tale of love, death, and the supernatural, offering a profound exploration of the duality of womanhood and the complexities of human nature that reside within us al...

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, resilience, and identity. We'll delve into how their unique family dynamics and the wild landscapes they called home shaped iconic works like Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre. Join us as we celebrate the Brontës' enduring influence and expl...

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 of spiritualism. Join us as we dive into how the sisters deceived society and discover how their story became intertwined with 19th-century death culture and the ongoing search for connection beyond the grave.

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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 Contrary," thought to reflect religious persecution during Queen Mary I's reign, these rhymes hold hidden stories far darker than their playful tunes suggest. Join Stauney and Sadie as they delve into the twisted roots of these timeless verses...

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 extended beyond fashion, inspiring The Beatles' song "Suzy Parker." Join Stauney and Sadie as they explore this trailblazing model's life, career, and enduring legacy, whose remarkable impact continues to shape the fashion world.

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 pioneering spirit that helped shape the modern model agency industry. Join Stauney and Sadie as they explore the life, influence, and enduring legacy of this trailblazing model who forever changed the face of fashion.

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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 beyond is undeniable. Though often overshadowed by their male counterparts, these women were the true powerhouses behind the Pre-Raphaelite vision, shaping the art world in ways the "bros" could never have done alone.

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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 rise and fall of her iconic fashion house and the lasting legacy she built—one that is being rediscovered and celebrated today. From surrealist collaborations to daring, imaginative designs, Schiaparelli's influence continues to shape modern couture unexpectedly.

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 divisions. Join Stauney and Sadie as they explore the origins of reality TV, its peaks and pitfalls, and how it both reflects and shapes the world we live in today.

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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 her true calling, the seven iconic painters from Canada, and the enduring impact she has left on the history of Canadian art.

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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.

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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 Kissed Me", "Do Wah Diddy Diddy", "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)", "Hanky Panky", "Chapel of Love", "Leader of the Pack", and "River Deep – Mountain High", among others.

We...

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."

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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 story and influence is worth celebrating.

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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 the different accounts of the documentary, and then discuss whether or not this is something worth saving.

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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 to a champion for equality, looking at her music, her impact on culture, and her lasting legacy as both a talented artist and a...

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 Boygenius, along with a shout-out to other artists who have been capturing our hearts.

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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, and then dive deeply into her personal life, featuring daring romantic escapades, multiple affairs, and even joining a convent to rescue a lover (in which arson and faking death might have also been involved). Despite the chaos surrounding her...

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 photographer and musician, who is also often blamed for the break-up of The Beatles. Next, we look at Ringo Starr's marriage with hairdresser Maureen Cox and their messy affairs and divorce, followed by...

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, their tumultuous secret relationship, as well as his later, controversial love, multimedia artist Yoko Ono, who is often blamed for the band's split. Next, we look at George Harrison's relationship...

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, and her eventual triumph in the age of social media as her vast "worlds" of mirrors, dots, and color send the viewers into a different world. She is the perfect example of how determination and variety...

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 and minorities. Our hosts delve into the crossword's implementation, its strategic roles during wartime conflicts, its technological transformation in the 1990s, and its current standing in the digital age. Tune in to explore how this beloved pastime has both shaped and...

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 firing squad, unfairly scapegoated for France's wartime setbacks. With her tale often misunderstood, it's a poignant opportunity to celebrate a woman of resilience and dignity amidst profound adversity.

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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, her battles with mental health, her complex personal relationships, and the enduring impact of her literary contributions.

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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 aspects of being an artist in the public eye that would influence your creativity and work. Then we take some time to talk about the Patti Smith and Stevie Nicks references, as well as explain the...

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, the struggles of the industry, the sexism of the country music charts, what it's like to write with/for singers, how it feels to have a song hit the charts, and the mentorship she hopes to pass on to young songwriters with...