Radiotopia Presents: We're Doing the Wiz

To celebrate the anniversary of Red for Revolution’s Radiotopia debut, we’re dropping a special bonus episode.  Join members of the cast and creative team as they revisit the story's earliest seeds, its unexpected turns, and the beautiful collaboration. You’ll also hear exclusive, unreleased audio scenes from the cutting‑room floor. Part reflection, part celebration, and part revelation, this episode invites listeners into the room where the revolution truly began.Red for Revolution is created, written, and directed by Jana Naomi Smith with Musical Direction by Tammy L. Hall and Sound Design by Collin Gerald Thomas. Original Music by Tammy L.  Hall and Jana Naomi Smith and performed by Renée Wilson, Loretta Devine, and Jordan Hull featuring the Red for Revolution band, Tammy L. Hall on piano, Kofy Brown on electric Bass, Ruth Davies on acoustic Bass, Ruthie Price on drums, Kristen Strom on saxophone and flute, and Vicki Randle on percussion. Cover art by Shefon N. Taylor. The series is executive produced by Renée Wilson, Jana Naomi Smith, and Meta Mana Media with associate producers Jordan Hull, Adrian Snegg, and Vanessa E. Williams. All episodes produced by Liz McBee.The Red for Revolution team would like to thank each person who helped bring this project to life. Please visit redforrevolution.com for the complete credit and gratitude list. For additional resources and to sign up for our newsletter, visit redforrevolution.com.This audio drama was recorded under the SAG-AFTRA 2020 New Media Principal Performer Contract.This episode includes interviews with Jana Naomi Smith  Jordan Hull Tammy L. Hall  Liz McBee Renée Wilson Alimi BallardAnd features performances by:adrienne maree brown as series sonic guide Ashley J. Hobbs as additional narrations  Renée Wilson as Lorraine Giovanni (1970s) Rutina Wesley as Ella Ali (1970s) Alimi Ballard as LeRoy (1970s) Will Kachi (Volunteer 1970s)Music Featured:“Revolution” Written by Jana Naomi Smith Original Composition by Tammy L. Hall  Performed by Renée Wilson and the Red For Revolution Band Tammy Hall, pianist & music director Kofy Brown, electric Bassist Ruth Davies, acoustic Bassist Ruthie Price, drummer Vicki Randle, percussionist Kristen Strom, saxophonist/flautist For Radiotopia Presents, Yooree Losordo is the Managing Producer. Audrey Mardavich is the Executive Producer. Red for Revolution is part of Radiotopia Presents, a podcast feed that debuts limited-run, artist-owned series from new and original voices.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 5 February 2026

Welcome to September. Public media has had a rough summer. On July 18th, Congress passed the Rescissions Act of 2025, which eliminated $1.1 billion in funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Then on August 1st, CPB announced they would be winding down operations. When folks talk about these cuts, they usually talk about the vital public services public media provides, such as emergency alerts. But we'd be remiss if we didn't also talk about how NPR is an audio storytelling powerhouse. Throughout the month, we've partnered with our friends at NPR to present four pieces that represent the breadth and depth of their incredible reporting. We hope you enjoy.****************************Part 1: This weekend on The Sunday Story, NPR's Laura Sullivan examines how the nation is failing to rebuild after major storms in a way that will protect them from the next one. As climate-related storms become more frequent and severe, NPR and PBS FRONTLINE investigate the forces keeping communities from building resiliently, and the special interests that profit when communities don't. Despite billions in federal aid, outdated policies, weak building codes, and political resistance are putting lives and homes at continued risk. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 23 September 2025

Welcome to September. Public media has had a rough summer. On July 18th, Congress passed the Rescissions Act of 2025, which eliminated $1.1 billion in funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Then on August 1st, CPB announced they would be winding down operations. When folks talk about these cuts, they usually talk about the vital public services public media provides, such as emergency alerts. But we'd be remiss if we didn't also talk about how NPR is an audio storytelling powerhouse. Throughout the month, we've partnered with our friends at NPR to present four pieces that represent the breadth and depth of their incredible reporting. We hope you enjoy.****************************As AI infiltrates every aspect of our lives, who are some of the people behind this huge inflection point? In this special three-part series, you'll hear from the people predicting and shaping our tech future. Host Manoush Zomorodi reports on the latest and revisits her favorite conversations with the minds crafting the digital world we live in today: what they've gotten right — and wrong — and where they think we're headed next. Part 1 features futurist Ray Kurzweil and counterculture icon Stewart Brand. TED Radio Hour+ subscribers now get access to bonus episodes, with more ideas from TED speakers and a behind the scenes look with our producers. A Plus subscription also lets you listen to regular episodes (like this one!) without sponsors. Sign-up at plus.npr.org/ted. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 16 September 2025

Welcome to September. Public media has had a rough summer. On July 18th, Congress passed the Rescissions Act of 2025, which eliminated $1.1 billion in funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Then on August 1st, CPB announced they would be winding down operations. When folks talk about these cuts, they usually talk about the vital public services public media provides, such as emergency alerts. But we'd be remiss if we didn't also talk about how NPR is an audio storytelling powerhouse. Throughout the month, we've partnered with our friends at NPR to present four pieces that represent the breadth and depth of their incredible reporting. We hope you enjoy.****************************Dinosaurs, Carl Sagan, and nuclear war. There was a moment in the not-so-distant past when we learned what drove the dinosaurs extinct — and that discovery, made during the Cold War, may have helped save humans from the same fate. In this episode, we'll take a journey from prehistoric times to the nuclear age and explore how humans contend with fears of the end.To access bonus episodes and listen to Throughline sponsor-free, subscribe to Throughline+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org/throughline. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 9 September 2025

Welcome to September. Public media has had a rough summer. On July 18th, Congress passed the Rescissions Act of 2025, which eliminated $1.1 billion in funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Then on August 1st, CPB announced they would be winding down operations. When folks talk about these cuts, they usually talk about the vital public services public media provides, such as emergency alerts. But we'd be remiss if we didn't also talk about how NPR is an audio storytelling powerhouse. Throughout the month, we've partnered with our friends at NPR to present four pieces that represent the breadth and depth of their incredible reporting. We hope you enjoy.****************************In the mid-1980s, an OBGYN in Brazil noticed that far fewer pregnant women at his hospital were dying from abortion complications. It wasn't a coincidence. Brazilian women had made a discovery that allowed them to safely have abortions at home, despite the country's abortion restrictions. That discovery eventually spread across the globe. Embedded+ supporters get first access and sponsor-free listening for every Embedded series. Sign up at plus.npr.org/embedded. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 2 September 2025

When Ian Coss decided to get married, every living member of his family who had ever been married had also gotten divorced: parents, grandparents, and all his aunts and uncles on both sides — some of them twice. Today, he has questions: What is the value of a lifetime commitment? Are we doomed to recycle the patterns of behavior we get from our ancestors? Are we all just better off alone? Forever is a Long Time is a five-episode series from CBC’s Personally that weaves reflection and original music through Ian’s conversations with his wife and divorced family members — a look at love with people who have made mistakes.Get lost in someone else’s life. From a mysterious childhood spent on the run, to a courageous escape from domestic violence, each season of Personally invites you to explore the human experience in all its complexity, one story — or season — at a time. This is what it sounds like to be human. More episodes of Personally can be found here: https://link.mgln.ai/fialt-wdtw Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2025

It's opening night. Will PVPA pull it off? And almost 20 years later, the cast reflects on the impact doing The Wiz had on their lives.The series is made possible in part by a grant from Mass Humanities, which provided funding through the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Learn more about We're Doing The Wiz at radiotopiapresents.fm and discover more shows from across the Radiotopia network at radiotopia.fm. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2025

Rehearsals are in full swing. But while most students are focused on their songs and dance steps, a tense backstage drama threatens the entire production.The series is made possible in part by a grant from Mass Humanities, which provided funding through the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Learn more about We're Doing The Wiz at radiotopiapresents.fm and discover more shows from across the Radiotopia network at radiotopia.fm. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2025

It’s audition time at PVPA. Will students get the parts they want? Will it come down to race, talent or both? And is anyone giving Dorothy?The series is made possible in part by a grant from Mass Humanities, which provided funding through the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Learn more about We're Doing The Wiz at radiotopiapresents.fm and discover more shows from across the Radiotopia network at radiotopia.fm. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2025

When a bussing program brings a group of Black students to a predominately white performing arts high school in rural Massachusetts, a racial reckoning rocks the campus. And an unlikely selection for the school’s annual musical reshapes the student body forever. The series is made possible in part by a grant from Mass Humanities, which provided funding through the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Learn more about We're Doing The Wiz at radiotopiapresents.fm and discover more shows from across the Radiotopia network at radiotopia.fm. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 17 June 2025

Coming up next on Radiotopia Presents: We’re Doing The Wiz. Two former classmates reconnect to unpack the high school musical that changed their lives.The series is made possible in part by a grant from Mass Humanities, which provided funding through the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Learn more about We're Doing The Wiz at radiotopiapresents.fm and discover more shows from across the Radiotopia network at radiotopia.fm. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 10 June 2025

On May 24, 2025 in LA, Red for Revolution's creator/writer/director Jana Naomi Smith joined The Frogs for a rollicking live taping of their podcast, to talk career, inspiration, the origins of R4R, and for a live performance featuring Caro Guzmán.To listen to the full episode, head over to the The Frogs — where theater, culture, and vibe collide. Co-hosted by Alex Ubokudom and Tobie Windham, the podcast dives deep with groundbreaking artists, thinkers, and storytellers who are shaping the future of performance and cultural expression.From unforgettable interviews to live events and creative activations, The Frogs is more than a podcast, it’s a movement. It’s community. Whether you’re in the industry or simply love a good story, The Frogs invites you to tap in. Created in collaboration with Outside In Theatre. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2025

Today we’re introducing our Radiotopia Presents listeners to a brand new show out now from Radiotopia. It’s called Selects.Selects is a monthly show that brings you unearthed audio works we’ve found buried in web archives, radio streams, and old podcasts. They’ve come to us through the recommendations and inspirations of some of the most talented audio creators working today. Every month we release a new episode right here and it is going to be something that you definitely want to hear. The works that we are going to feature are going to be some of the most compelling and exciting and ambitious works in audio. You can find the whole library of exclusively curated works and bonus content at selects.fm or on our Apple Podcasts channel.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2025

Recently, the White House announced its plans to ask Congress to rescind funding to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. If the plan passes, there could be serious consequences for the public media ecosystem. Rather than tell you why we think public media is important, we are sharing this piece from NPR's Up First. This story is one of the best things we've listened to this year, so we think you'll enjoy it, just because. We also think it'll show you, a thousand times better than we can tell you, about why public media is essential. Kudos to The Sunday Story team at NPR for this magnificent piece. For more info, visit NPR.org. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025

Today we're sharing the first episode of Harlem Queen, a historical audio drama detailing the powerful story of “Policy Queen” and “gangster” Madame Stephanie St. Clair.Madame St. Clair had a powerful impact on building the Harlem community underground and aboveground and defining the Harlem Renaissance. Our goal is for you to be entertained, educated, empowered and uplifted after hearing this amazing story! Harlem Queen can be found at https://www.yhanewashingtonsmith.com/ or anywhere you listen to podcasts.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2025

In October 2024, Apple Podcasts launched a new initiative to highlight narrative series, including designating a new show every month as a Series Essential, celebrating the finest storytelling and the medium’s greatest achievements. My Mother Made Me is the March 2025 selection.For this special occasion, we asked Jason to sit down with his mother to reflect on their experience of documenting and sharing their very special relationship with the world. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2025

Today, we're sharing the first episode of a new limited-run series from NPR's Embedded, "Alternate Realities".Zach Mack and his dad are living in separate realities, and it's tearing their family apart. Like so many Americans, Zach's dad has gotten swept up in conspiracy theories. After years of circular arguments, the father challenged his son to a bet: $10,000 on ten politically apocalyptic predictions that would all happen in 2024. In this three-part series, we follow Zach on an intimate journey to bring his father back from the rabbit hole. "This is more than just a story about whose reality is 'correct'," said Zach Mack. "As I documented my father's beliefs throughout the past year, I was also trying to understand how the conspiracy theories he found took hold. The bet offered a way to settle our endless debates, which I know so many other families are having, and arrive at a place of truth and understanding.""Alternate Realities" intimately explores how the intermingling of misinformation and Zach's father's religious beliefs tests the bonds of his family, and offers a first-person perspective into an issue plaguing close relationships across the nation. How do you reach a loved one who is lost inside his own conspiracy mentality? And what do you do if your best efforts to bring them back end up failing?Embedded is available wherever you get your podcasts. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2025

As tensions escalate and hearts are both shattered and healed, our season one love story reaches its climax in the City of Love. Jazmine’s family surprises her with a graduation trip to Paris, but little do they know, she has a surprise of her own in store.Red for Revolution is created, written, and directed by Jana Naomi Smith with Musical Direction by Tammy L. Hall and Sound Design by Collin Gerald Thomas. Original Music by Tammy L.  Hall and Jana Naomi Smith and performed by Renée Wilson, Loretta Devine, and Jordan Hull featuring the Red for Revolution band, Tammy L. Hall on piano, Kofy Brown on electric Bass, Ruth Davies on acoustic Bass, Ruthie Price on drums, Kristen Strom on saxophone and flute, and Vicki Randle on percussion. Cover art by Shefon N. Taylor. The series is executive produced by Renée Wilson, Jana Naomi Smith, and Meta Mana Media with associate producers Jordan Hull, Adrian Snegg, and Vanessa E. Williams. All episodes produced by Liz McBee.The Red for Revolution team would like to thank each person who helped bring this project to life. Please visit redforrevolution.com for the complete credit and gratitude list. For additional resources and to sign up for our newsletter visit redforrevolution.com.This audio drama was recorded under the SAG-AFTRA 2020 New Media Principal Performer Contract. Episode Six Cast: Jordan Hull a s Jazmine James S. Epatha Merkerson as Ella Ali (Present Day) Loretta Devine as Lorraine Giovanni (Present Day) Renée Wilson as Lorraine Giovanni (1970s) Rutina Wesley as Ella Ali (1970s) Alimi Ballard as LeRoy Jennifer Beals as Suzanne Sands   Mal'akiy Rhoden as Miles James Ashley J. Hobbs as Airline Announcer Mathew Quitney as Stage Manager Christine Angelique as Paris Music Festival Announcer  Caro Guzmán as AdrienneMusic Featured: “I Don’t Want To Know” Written by Jana Naomi Smith Original Composition by Tammy L. Hall  Performed by Jordan Hull “I Love Paris” Written by Cole Porter Performed by Loretta Devine and the Red for Revolution Band Courtesy of WARNER CHAPPELL MUSIC INC.“Dare To Love” Written by Jana Naomi Smith Original Composition by Tammy L. Hall  Performed by Loretta Devine and the Red For Revolution BandFor Radiotopia Presents, Yooree Losordo is the Managing Producer. Audrey Mardavich is the Executive Producer. Red for Revolution is part of Radiotopia Presents, a podcast feed that debuts limited-run, artist-owned series from new and original voices.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2025

As tensions between Jazmine and her mother boil over, Grandma Ella steps in, guiding the three women to confront the painful reality of intergenerational homophobia. Meanwhile, back in the 1970s, the stakes soar for Ella and Lorraine’s relationship as young Ella is falsely accused of a crime. Red for Revolution is created, written, and directed by Jana Naomi Smith with Musical Direction by Tammy L. Hall and Sound Design by Collin Gerald Thomas. Original Music by Tammy L.  Hall and Jana Naomi Smith and performed by Renée Wilson, Loretta Devine, and Jordan Hull featuring the Red for Revolution band, Tammy L. Hall on piano, Kofy Brown on electric Bass, Ruth Davies on acoustic Bass, Ruthie Price on drums, Kristen Strom on saxophone and flute, and Vicki Randle on percussion. Cover art by Shefon N. Taylor. The series is executive produced by Renée Wilson, Jana Naomi Smith, and Meta Mana Media with associate producers Jordan Hull, Adrian Snegg, and Vanessa E. Williams. All episodes produced by Liz McBee.The Red for Revolution team would like to thank each person who helped bring this project to life. Please visit redforrevolution.com for the complete credit and gratitude list. For additional resources and to sign up for our newsletter visit redforrevolution.com.This audio drama was recorded under the SAG-AFTRA 2020 New Media Principal Performer Contract. Episode 5 Cast: Jordan Hull a s Jazmine James S. Epatha Merkerson as Ella Ali (Present Day) Loretta Devine as Lorraine Giovanni (Present Day) Renée Wilson as Lorraine Giovanni (1970s) Rutina Wesley as Ella Ali (1970s) Don Daniels as Sean  Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor as Delores Ali Danny Glover as Howard Ali Jennifer Beals as Suzanne Sands   Vanessa E. Williams as Barbra Graves JoNell Kennedy as News Reporter Mark Thompson as William Davis Caro Guzmán as Kathy Miles Agee as Vincent and Preacher Xavier Miles Temple as Nightclub RunnerMusic Featured: “His Eye is on the Sparrow” Written by Civilla Durfee Martin and Charles Hutchinson Gabriel Performed by Renée Wilson“Send In The Clowns” Written by Stephen Sondheim Performed by Renée Wilson and Jordan Hull and the Red for Revolution Band Courtesy of WARNER CHAPPELL MUSIC INC.For Radiotopia Presents, Yooree Losordo is the Managing Producer. Audrey Mardavich is the Executive Producer. Red for Revolution is part of Radiotopia Presents, a podcast feed that debuts limited-run, artist-owned series from new and original voices.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2025

Jazmine holds space for Ms. Lorraine as she shares her story of substance abuse, inspiring a conversation about grace and self-acceptance. Meanwhile, back in the 70s, a younger Lorraine confesses her substance abuse to Ella, generating a difficult impasse between the two. Red for Revolution is created, written, and directed by Jana Naomi Smith with Musical Direction by Tammy L. Hall and Sound Design by Collin Gerald Thomas. Original Music by Tammy L.  Hall and Jana Naomi Smith and performed by Renée Wilson, Loretta Devine, and Jordan Hull featuring the Red for Revolution band, Tammy L. Hall on piano, Kofy Brown on electric Bass, Ruth Davies on acoustic Bass, Ruthie Price on drums, Kristen Strom on saxophone and flute, and Vicki Randle on percussion. Cover art by Shefon N. Taylor. The series is executive produced by Renée Wilson, Jana Naomi Smith, and Meta Mana Media with associate producers Jordan Hull, Adrian Snegg, and Vanessa E. Williams. All episodes produced by Liz McBee.The Red for Revolution team would like to thank each person who helped bring this project to life. Please visit redforrevolution.com for the complete credit and gratitude list. For additional resources and to sign up for our newsletter visit redforrevolution.com.This audio drama was recorded under the SAG-AFTRA 2020 New Media Principal Performer Contract. Episode Four Cast: Jordan Hull a s Jazmine James S. Epatha Merkerson as Ella Ali (Present Day) Loretta Devine as Lorraine Giovanni (Present Day) Renée Wilson as Lorraine Giovanni (1970s) Rutina Wesley as Ella Ali (1970s) Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor as Delores Ali Danny Glover as Howard Ali Caro Guzman as Kathy David Alan Graf as Dean McKenna Xavier Miles Temple as Robber adrienne maree brown as series sonic guide Music Featured: “He Looked Beyond My Fault” Written by Dottie Rambo Performed by Loretta Devine Courtesy of Tomorrowland Music, Designer Music, Brandee-Vah Publishing, Capitol CMG PublishingFor Radiotopia Presents, Yooree Losordo is the Managing Producer. Audrey Mardavich is the Executive Producer. Red for Revolution is part of Radiotopia Presents, a podcast feed that debuts limited-run, artist-owned series from new and original voices.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2025

As Jazmine grapples with self-acceptance, Grandma Ella and Ms. Lorraine feel compelled to share their respective insecurities. This leads to a poignant recollection of the day a power outage compelled a young Ella and Lorraine to reveal their deepest secrets and vulnerabilities.Red for Revolution is created, written, and directed by Jana Naomi Smith with Musical Direction by Tammy L. Hall and Sound Design by Collin Gerald Thomas. Original Music by Tammy L.  Hall and Jana Naomi Smith and performed by Renée Wilson, Loretta Devine, and Jordan Hull featuring the Red for Revolution band, Tammy L. Hall on piano, Kofy Brown on electric Bass, Ruth Davies on acoustic Bass, Ruthie Price on drums, Kristen Strom on saxophone and flute, and Vicki Randle on percussion. Cover art by Shefon N. Taylor. The series is executive produced by Renée Wilson, Jana Naomi Smith, and Meta Mana Media with associate producers Jordan Hull, Adrian Snegg, and Vanessa E. Williams. All episodes produced by Liz McBee.The Red for Revolution team would like to thank each person who helped bring this project to life. Please visit redforrevolution.com for the complete credit and gratitude list. For additional resources and to sign up for our newsletter visit redforrevolution.com.This audio drama was recorded under the SAG-AFTRA 2020 New Media Principal Performer Contract. Episode Three Cast: Jordan Hull a s Jazmine James S. Epatha Merkerson as Ella Ali (Present Day) Loretta Devine as Lorraine Giovanni (Present Day) Renée Wilson as Lorraine Giovanni (1970s) Rutina Wesley as Ella Ali (1970s) Jennifer Beals as Suzanne Sands   David Alan Graf as Pilot Ashley J. Hobbs as Ruby adrienne maree brown as series sonic guide Music Featured: “Stormy Weather” Written by Harold Arlen Performed by Loretta Devine and Renée Wilson Courtesy of BMG, Round Hill Music, Sony Music Publishing and S.A. MusicFor Radiotopia Presents, Yooree Losordo is the Managing Producer. Audrey Mardavich is the Executive Producer. Red for Revolution is part of Radiotopia Presents, a podcast feed that debuts limited-run, artist-owned series from new and original voices.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 18 February 2025

Jazmine uncovers her grandmother's journals, shedding light on previously unknown aspects of her inner life and igniting the tale of how Ella and Lorraine reconnected in 1971, New York City for a taping of the TV show Black Dreams after their passionate first encounter in Gary.Red for Revolution is created, written, and directed by Jana Naomi Smith with Musical Direction by Tammy L. Hall and Sound Design by Collin Gerald Thomas. Original Music by Tammy L.  Hall and Jana Naomi Smith and performed by Renée Wilson, Loretta Devine, and Jordan Hull featuring the Red for Revolution band, Tammy L. Hall on piano, Kofy Brown on electric Bass, Ruth Davies on acoustic Bass, Ruthie Price on drums, Kristen Strom on saxophone and flute, and Vicki Randle on percussion. Cover art by Shefon N. Taylor. The series is executive produced by Renée Wilson, Jana Naomi Smith, and Meta Mana Media with associate producers Jordan Hull, Adrian Snegg, and Vanessa E. Williams. All episodes produced by Liz McBee.The Red for Revolution team would like to thank each person who helped bring this project to life. Please visit redforrevolution.com for the complete credit and gratitude list. For additional resources and to sign up for our newsletter visit redforrevolution.com.This audio drama was recorded under the SAG-AFTRA 2020 New Media Principal Performer Contract. Episode Two Cast: Jordan Hull a s Jazmine James S. Epatha Merkerson as Ella Ali (Present Day) Loretta Devine as Lorraine Giovanni (Present Day) Renée Wilson as Lorraine Giovanni (1970s) Rutina Wesley as Ella Ali (1970s) Don Daniels as Sean  Alimi Ballard as LeRoy Caro Guzmán as Kathy Mal'akiy Rhoden as Joe Mark Thompson as Black Dreams Host Miles Agee as Black Dreams Producer Krystel Roche as Roseline Mathew Quitney as Party-Guest adrienne maree brown as series sonic guide Music Featured: “I Don’t Want To Know” Written by Jana Naomi Smith Original Composition by Tammy L. Hall  Performed by René Wilson and the Red For Revolution Band“My Love Ain’t No Play Thang” Written by Jana Naomi Smith Original Composition by Tammy L. Hall  Performed by René Wilson and the Red For Revolution Band“Never Will I Marry” Written by Frank Loesser Performed by Renée Wilson and the Red For Revolution Band Courtesy of MPL Music PublishingFor Radiotopia Presents, Yooree Losordo is the Managing Producer. Audrey Mardavich is the Executive Producer. Red for Revolution is part of Radiotopia Presents, a podcast feed that debuts limited-run, artist-owned series from new and original voices.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 11 February 2025

After the assassination of a Black female revolutionary, an unexpected romance blossoms between the two women left in her wake—an apolitical jazz singer and a radical activist. While in the present day, college-bound Jazmine embarks on a journey to find her grandmother's first love and document their love story.Red for Revolution is created, written, and directed by Jana Naomi Smith with Musical Direction by Tammy L. Hall and Sound Design by Collin Gerald Thomas. Original Music by Tammy L.  Hall and Jana Naomi Smith and performed by Renée Wilson, Loretta Devine, and Jordan Hull featuring the Red for Revolution band, Tammy L. Hall on piano, Kofy Brown on electric Bass, Ruth Davies on acoustic Bass, Ruthie Price on drums, Kristen Strom on saxophone and flute, and Vicki Randle on percussion. Cover art by Shefon N. Taylor. The series is executive produced by Renée Wilson, Jana Naomi Smith, and Meta Mana Media with associate producers Jordan Hull, Adrian Snegg, and Vanessa E. Williams. All episodes produced by Liz McBee.The Red for Revolution team would like to thank each person who helped bring this project to life. Please visit redforrevolution.com for the complete credit and gratitude list. For additional resources and to sign up for our newsletter visit redforrevolution.com.This audio drama was recorded under the SAG-AFTRA 2020 New Media Principal Performer Contract. Episode One Cast: Jordan Hull as Jazmine James S. Epatha Merkerson as Ella Ali (Present Day) Loretta Devine as Lorraine Giovanni (Present Day) Renée Wilson as Lorraine Giovanni (1970s) Rutina Wesley as Ella Ali (1970s) Caro Guzmán as Adrienne Mathew Quitney as Reporter Will Kachi as the Rally Volunteer Miles Agee as the Announcer  Mark Thompson as William Davis adrienne maree brown as series sonic guide Music Featured: “Revolution” Written by Jana Naomi Smith Original Composition by Tammy L. Hall  Performed by Renée Wilson and the Red For Revolution Band“I’ve Got a Crush On You” Written by George and Ira Gershwin Performed by Loretta Devine and the Red For Revolution Band Courtesy of WARNER CHAPPELL MUSIC INC.“Prove It On Me” Written by Ma’Rainey Performed by Rutina Wesley and Renée Wilson Courtesy of Spike Driver MusicFor Radiotopia Presents, Yooree Losordo is the Managing Producer. Audrey Mardavich is the Executive Producer. Red for Revolution is part of Radiotopia Presents, a podcast feed that debuts limited-run, artist-owned series from new and original voices.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2025

Red for Revolution is an enthralling audio drama that tells the passionate love story between jazz singer Lorraine Giovanni and activist Ella Ali. The narrative unfolds through the perspective of 18-year-old Jazmine, who is coming of age and seeking wisdom from her grandmother, Ella. As Jazmine conducts heartfelt interviews with her grandmother, listeners are transported between the vibrant present and the tumultuous year of 1971, encountering a captivating array of characters and experiencing an epic romance that transcends time.Red for Revolution is created, written, and directed by Jana Naomi Smith, with musical direction by Tammy L. Hall and sound design by Collin Gerald Thomas. Original music by Tammy L.  Hall and Jana Naomi Smith, and performed by Renée Wilson, Loretta Devine, and Jordan Hull featuring the Red for Revolution band: Tammy L. Hall on piano, Kofy Brown on electric bass, Ruth Davies on acoustic bass, Ruthie Price on drums, Kristen Strom on saxophone and flute, and Vicki Randle on percussion.  The series is executive produced by Renée Wilson, Jana Naomi Smith, and Meta Mana Media with associate producers Jordan Hull, Adrian Snegg, and Vanessa E. Williams. All episodes produced by Liz McBee.The Red for Revolution team would like to thank each person who helped bring this project to life. Please visit redforrevolution.com for the complete credit and gratitude list. Performances featured in order of appearance: adrienne maree brown as Series Sonic Guide Jordan Hull as Jazmine S. Epatha Merkerson as Ella Ali (Present Day) Caro Guzmán as Adrienne Loretta Devine as Lorraine Giovanni (Present Day) Rutina Wesley as Ella Ali (1970s) Renée Wilson as Lorraine Giovanni (1970s) Alimi Ballard as LeRoy Don Daniels as Sean Vanessa E. Williams as Barbra Graves Jennifer Beals as Suzanne Sands Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor as Delores Ali Danny Glover as Howard Ali Song Featured:"Revolution" — Written by Jana Naomi Smith. Original composition by Tammy L. Hall. Performed by Renée Wilson and the Red For Revolution BandLearn more about Red for Revolution at radiotopiapresents.fm and discover more shows from across the Radiotopia network at radiotopia.fm. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 29 January 2025

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - Weight For It - “Into Thin Air."It's not too late - Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is still on! Donate to support audio with vision. Thank you! Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 31 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - This Day in Esoteric Political History - “Dick Cheney Shoots Friend In The Face”.Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you! Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 30 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - The West Wing Weekly - “The American President”.Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you! Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 29 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - The Stoop - “This Ain't Texas, It's Africa."It's not too late - Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is still on! Donate to support audio with vision. Thank you! Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 28 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - Song Exploder - “Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young - Our House."It's not too late - Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is still on! Donate to support audio with vision. Thank you! Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 27 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - The Recipe with Kenji and Deb - “Popcorn”.Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 26 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - Shocking, Heartbreaking, Transformative - “Just a Girl with a Microphone."Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 25 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - Radio Diaries - “The John Birch Society”.Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 24 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - Normal Gossip - “The Suite Life of Rachelle and Kelsey”.Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 23 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - The Mortified Podcast - “The Origin Story”.Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 22 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - The Memory Palace - “Lost Jobs”.Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you! And you can buy The Memory Palace book here.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 21 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - The Kitchen Sisters Present - “Tupperware”.Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 20 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - Hyperfixed - “Casey Wants to Believe”. Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 19 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - The Heart - “EPILOGUE | Letter to Gaza”.Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 18 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - Hang Up - “Speed Dial”.Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 17 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - Ear Hustle - “What's Up, Michael Freeman?”.Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you! Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - Benjamen Walker's Theory of Everything - "Not All Propaganda is Art" episode 1.Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 15 December 2024

Best of Radiotopia 2024 - Articles of Interest - “Nudity”.Radiotopia’s fall fundraiser is here! Donate today to support audio with vision. Thank you!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 14 December 2024

From our friends at Personal Best (CBC) —Personal Best from CBC celebrates small ambitions, half-wins and the quiet satisfaction of getting less bad at things. Each week they help ordinary people work through the little things they’d never bring to a life coach — like having the courage to dine alone at a fancy restaurant or getting less awkward at handshakes. Let them be your self-improvement sidekicks! In this episode, you’ll meet Will who likes the simple things in life, but is haunted by a fear of commitment. Only a very special shawarma can break the curse. More episodes are available at: https://link.chtbl.com/HcfhFnRc Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 17 September 2024

From our friends at the LAist —In 2023, North Hollywood’s Star Garden reopened as the only unionized strip club in the U.S. LAist Producer Emma Alabaster tells us the behind-the-scenes story of the workplace conditions that pushed the dancers into action. CONTENT WARNING: This episode includes sensitive content about sexual assault.For sexual assault and harassment support and resources, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673, which is a service of RAINN (Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network).Here are some resources that informed our reporting: Working It: Sex Workers on the Work of Sex  (In particular, the essay "White Supremacy in Organizing" by Domino Rey) Unequal Desires: Race and Erotic Capital in the Stripping Industry by Siobhan Brooks Tits and Sass: Service Journalism by and for Sex Workers LA Co-op Lab U.S. Federation of Worker Cooperatives 2021 Worker Cooperative State of the Sector Report Yes, A Stripper Podcast For more resources For more, visit https://LAist.com/ImperfectParadise Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 25 June 2024

Back in 2017, Shocking, Heartbreaking, Transformative host/producer Jess Shane made “Perfect Woman”, an episode of Love Me, the CBC podcast. In 2018, Nick van der Kolk made “Points of Egress” for his show, Love + Radio, inspired by “Perfect Woman”. Today, we come full circle to share “Points of Egress” with you. Listen to the end for Jess’s version of the credits. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 19 March 2024

After Jess receives feedback that throws a major wrench into her production schedule, she has to make some tough decisions.Shocking, Heartbreaking, Transformative is written, hosted and produced by Jess Shane. Sara Nics is the story editor. Sound design, mix/mastering by Michelle Macklem. Production support from Mona Hassan. Cover art is by Justin Broadbent. Jess’s bibliography is available here.This reporting was supported in part by the International Women’s Media Foundation’s Howard G.Buffett Fund for Women Journalists.Special thanks to Eleanor McDowall and Chioke I’Anson.For Radiotopia Presents, Yooree Losordo is the managing producer. Audrey Mardavich is the Executive Producer. It’s a production of PRX’s Radiotopia and part of Radiotopia Presents, a podcast feed that debuts limited-run, artist-owned series from new and original voices.Learn more about Shocking, Heartbreaking, Transformative at radiotopiapresents.fm and discover more shows from across the Radiotopia network at radiotopia.fm.We’d like to thank the extended Shocking, Heartbreaking, Transformative team, without whom you may not have heard about this project. For PRX marketing: Gretchen Borzi, David Cotrone, Sher Delva, Apu Goteh, and Maggie Gourville. For PRX sponsorship: Audrey Davidson, Melissa Garcia-Houle, Carolyn Willander, and Jeanne Yeh.This series was possible thanks to Ernesto, Michael, and Judy, whose vibrant souls could never fit into the confines of any series.Most of all, thank you for listening. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2024

With only a few months till launch, Jess plays a draft of the series for her subjects and gives them an opportunity to request major changes.Shocking, Heartbreaking, Transformative is written, hosted and produced by Jess Shane. Sara Nics is the story editor. Sound design, mix/mastering by Michelle Macklem. Production support from Mona Hassan. Cover art is by Justin Broadbent. Jess’s bibliography is available here.This reporting was supported in part by the International Women’s Media Foundation’s Howard G.Buffett Fund for Women Journalists.Special thanks to Eleanor McDowall and Chioke I’Anson.For Radiotopia Presents, Yooree Losordo is the managing producer. Audrey Mardavich is the Executive Producer. It’s a production of PRX’s Radiotopia and part of Radiotopia Presents, a podcast feed that debuts limited-run, artist-owned series from new and original voices.Learn more about Shocking, Heartbreaking, Transformative at radiotopiapresents.fm and discover more shows from across the Radiotopia network at radiotopia.fm. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 6 February 2024

Jess makes a deal with Judy, an unhoused senior. Judy will let Jess document her, and Jess will help Judy resolve some of her ongoing life problems. As Jess gets sucked into Judy's crises, the rest of the series starts to slip and Jess’ relationships with her other subjects get messy. Jess starts to doubt the premise of this entire undertaking.Shocking, Heartbreaking, Transformative is written, hosted and produced by Jess Shane. Sara Nics is the story editor. Sound design, mix/mastering by Michelle Macklem. Production support from Mona Hassan. Cover art is by Justin Broadbent. Jess’s bibliography is available here.This reporting was supported in part by the International Women’s Media Foundation’s Howard G.Buffett Fund for Women Journalists.Special thanks to Eleanor McDowall and Chioke I’Anson.For Radiotopia Presents, Yooree Losordo is the managing producer. Audrey Mardavich is the Executive Producer. It’s a production of PRX’s Radiotopia and part of Radiotopia Presents, a podcast feed that debuts limited-run, artist-owned series from new and original voices.Learn more about Shocking, Heartbreaking, Transformative at radiotopiapresents.fm and discover more shows from across the Radiotopia network at radiotopia.fm. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 30 January 2024

Jess begins by documenting Ernesto, a 20-year-old, newly sober fashion model. The plan is to pay Ernesto and let him be in charge of the story he wants to tell in the documentary. Things go sideways when Jess and Ernesto grapple with what will need to be cut out of Ernesto's life to turn it into a viable media product.More about Pooja Rangan’s book Immediations HERE.Shocking, Heartbreaking, Transformative is written, hosted and produced by Jess Shane. Sara Nics is the story editor. Sound design, mix/mastering by Michelle Macklem. Production support from Mona Hassan. Cover art is by Justin Broadbent. Jess’s bibliography is available here.Support for this project was provided in part by the International Women’s Media Foundation. Special thanks to Eleanor McDowall and Chioke I’Anson.For Radiotopia Presents, Yooree Losordo is the managing producer. Audrey Mardavich is the Executive Producer. It’s a production of PRX’s Radiotopia and part of Radiotopia Presents, a podcast feed that debuts limited-run, artist-owned series from new and original voices.Learn more about Shocking, Heartbreaking, Transformative at radiotopiapresents.fm and discover more shows from across the Radiotopia network at radiotopia.fm. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 23 January 2024

Jess used to think making documentaries was good for her subjects and good for the world. But she’s not so sure anymore. With this series, she's throwing out the old rules of documentary production and trying out some new ones.Shocking, Heartbreaking, Transformative is written, hosted and produced by Jess Shane. Sara Nics is the story editor. Sound design, mix/mastering by Michelle Macklem. Production support from Mona Hassan. Cover art is by Justin Broadbent. Jess’s bibliography is available here.Support for this project was provided in part by the International Women’s Media Foundation. Special thanks to Eleanor McDowall and Chioke I’Anson.For Radiotopia Presents, Yooree Losordo is the managing producer. Audrey Mardavich is the Executive Producer. It’s a production of PRX’s Radiotopia and part of Radiotopia Presents, a podcast feed that debuts limited-run, artist-owned series from new and original voices.Learn more about Shocking, Heartbreaking, Transformative at radiotopiapresents.fm and discover more shows from across the Radiotopia network at radiotopia.fm. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Transcribed - Published: 16 January 2024