That Wasn't In My Textbook

Latoya Coleman

That Wasn't In My Textbook is our history podcast that helps us uncover the things we always wished we learned from that boring bulky textbook. This is the history class you never knew you wanted and that you don't want to miss. This history podcast includes dynamic research topics, Toya’s cultural commentary and interviews with culture creators and entrepreneurs that speak to the ‘History of’ a topic from the history of police to the history of cannabis. In each episode of this history podcast learn alongside Toya, who picks out-of-the-textbook history topics, talk about lies our teacher taught us, provoke powerful conversations, and give you those unfiltered history and opinions - you know, the ones you might get in trouble for in class. Basically, if MTV Decoded, the History Channel and Anthony Bourdain spent their time debunking history and had a love child, it would be this podcast - That Wasn’t In My Textbook.

4 minutes 28 seconds
REWIND: Guac & Margaritas: History of Cinco De Mayo & Why We Celebrate It
Whether or not you plan on drinking margaritas today, (no judgement) let’s uncover the the true history of Cinco De Mayo. So we’re not one of the people getting sippin' and eating today with no context, thinking today is Mexican Independence Day!
In this episode, we discuss:
- What happened on this day in history
- One of the most common misconceptions about this day
- If and how they celebrate Cinco De Mayo in Mexico
- How and why Cinco De Mayo became such a big deal in America
Available now, where ever you listen to podcast.
Where I get my info from:
Follow and Support
- Visit our website. Follow the podcast on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and watch episodes on Youtube and feel free to donate.
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram, Twitter,and LinkedIn
STAY IN TOUCH:
- Visit our website.
- Follow and tag @thatwasntinmytextbook on Instagram,Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
- Sign up for podcast newsletter
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Research and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (@ToyaFromHarlem).
Music Licensed through Epidemic Sound

STAY IN TOUCH:
- Visit our website.
- Follow and tag @thatwasntinmytextbook on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
- Sign up for podcast newsletter
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Research and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (@ToyaFromHarlem).
Edited and Mixed by Chris Mann
Music Licensed through Epidemic Sound
5 May 2024, 4:58 pm
54 minutes 7 seconds
REWIND: The Hidden History of Taxes: How Taxes Keep Black Folks from Stackin’ Paper + What Can Be Done About It with Tax Law Professor & Author Dorothy A. Brown
Tax Day is creeping up on us! Ever wondered, why doesn’t anyone say Happy Tax Day? Cause doing taxes suck!
With tax day right around the corner you could be doing one of these three things;(1) chillin, cause you have your ish together and already submitted your taxes, (2) scrambling to get your ish together to just make it to the deadline by the skin of your teeth,Or (3) throwing up your hands, thinking,”fuck it” and buying yourself more time by submitting to get an extension until October.
No matter what position you’re in right now, it’s always good to know more about the tax system, how it works and more importantly, learn who benefits from tax policies and who suffers aka how it affects YOU.
Like did you know that Black people are 3 to 5 times more likely to get audited? Yep, tax policies are kinda racist, so let’s learn how the IRS, aka the Tax police, are keepin’ Black folks from building wealth.
In this episode of That Wasn’t In My Textbook, your favorite historian(me) along with bad-ass tax law professor, author, researcher and tax policy expert, Dorothy A. Brown will:
- Walk you through why we have taxes and how they work
- Give you a brief overview on how taxes are apart of the creation of America
- Draw the connection of how Black people were seen as property that needed to be taxed, and how this practice continued after the abolition of slavery
- Learn different tax policies that continues to disadvantage Black people, like the mortgage deduction
- Solutions that can help right the wrongs of the tax policy system so Black people are no disadvantaged
Join me as we speak with Dorothy A. Brown, a law professor at Emory University, and top expert who sheds light on how the U.S. tax system unfairly disadvantages Black Americans by giving preferential treatment to wealthy White individuals through various policies.
Put down that stuffy, boring textbook, grab your earbuds, and get into the most lit history lesson EVER! And don't forget to rate and subscribe!
Stay in Touch:
- Visit our website. Follow the podcast on Instagram,Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
- To learn more about today's guest Dorothy A. Brown, check out her website,Twitter, and book.
The episode was researched and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (Toya From Harlem).

STAY IN TOUCH:
- Visit our website.
- Follow and tag @thatwasntinmytextbook on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
- Sign up for podcast newsletter
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Research and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (@ToyaFromHarlem).
Edited and Mixed by Chris Mann
Music Licensed through Epidemic Sound
15 April 2024, 11:40 am
1 hour 26 minutes
REWIND: The 1st American Heroes: History of Black Cowboys with Historian and Host of Black Cowboys podcast Zaron Burnett
Did you know? Before the Civil War, one in four cowboys was Black, a fact that highlights their integral role in shaping the American West.
In this captivating episode of "The Hidden History of Black Cowboys," we journey into the American West to uncover a piece of history that's often overlooked and that Hollywood tells us is white. With our special guest, Zaron Burnett, a renowned writer, journalist, and the host of the acclaimed podcast "BLACK COWBOYS," you'll learn:
- The True American Cowboy: Discover the fascinating truth that before the Civil War, one in four cowboys was Black, reshaping our understanding of this iconic figure.
- Unveiling Hollywood Myths: Explore how Hollywood's portrayal of cowboys has perpetuated myths and stereotypes, and how this episode challenges those narratives.
- Invaluable Contributions: Learn about the often-unsung contributions of Black cowboys and cowgirls to the cattle industry, trailblazing horsemanship, and the cowboy way of life, proving them to be true American heroes.
- Zaron Burnett's Insights: Gain valuable insights from our guest, Zaron Burnett, as he shares his deep knowledge of the Black West and its hidden history.
- Intersections of Race and History: Explore the intersections of race, class, politics, and underlying power dynamics within the context of the cowboy narrative.
Grab your headphones and join us as we ride through history with Zaron Burnett and unveil the remarkable legacy of Black cowboys and cowgirls in the American West, celebrating them as true American heroes.
Streaming where ever you listen to podcast
Keep in touch:
- Visit our website. Follow the podcast on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and watch episodes on Youtube and feel free to donate.
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn
- To learn more about today's podcast guest Zaron Burnett III. Connect with Zaron by listening to his Black Cowboys podcast, Instagram, his true crime podcast, Twitter (X),
Sources:
STAY IN TOUCH:
- Visit our website.
- Follow and tag @thatwasntinmytextbook on Instagram,Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
- Sign up for podcast newsletter
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
STAY IN TOUCH:
- Visit our website.
- Follow and tag @thatwasntinmytextbook on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
- Sign up for podcast newsletter
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Research and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (@ToyaFromHarlem).
Edited and Mixed by Chris Mann
Music Licensed through Epidemic Sound
10 April 2024, 1:00 pm
26 minutes 39 seconds
Rewind: History of the Fresh Start Effect: The Science Behind New Beginnings
Happy New Year! What mystical, magical power does January hold that makes it THEE month we swear we're going to get our mind, money, and of course, our spiritual lives, right? We head to the local craft store and buy the latest "Happy Me" Planner and all those damn stickers! Head home and binge-watch 10,000 hours of content about goal planning and productivity.
January is the month millions master the art of planning--so why don't our well-laid plans have the power to stick? In this episode of, That Wasn't In My Textbook, your favorite historian (me) will:
- Walk you through the science behind the Fresh Start Effect.
- Introduce you to the Fresh Start Effect Trifecta: Catherine Milkman, Ph.D., Hengchen Dai GRW 15, and Jason Riis, the researchers who coined the term and vetted its power.
- Discuss how you can use their research to your advantage.
I'll explain the psychological boost we experience when passing temporal landmarks (And, if you have no idea what a temporal landmark is--you should be hitting that play button right now).
We also get into the dark side of this phenomenon and discuss strategies to benefit from the science while avoiding the drama that comes with less-than-effective goal planning.
Episode Highlights:
- [00:01:12]The Fresh Start Effect is a term coined by a few Ivy League researchers that garnered attention from The New York Times, Washington Post, and CNBC, to name a few. Tune in as I introduce you to the researchers whose names will forever ring bells in these goal-planning streets.
- [00:02:02] Is this your first time joining the littest history class in the nation? Here I introduce myself and explain why - That Wasn't In My Textbook is the one class you will never fall asleep in.
- [00:03:42] What do I think of New Year's Resolutions, bold proclamations, and plans for taking over the world in the new year? Listen as I explain why "new year, new me" resolutions can be intimidating and what you can do to avoid joining Team "too much."
- [00:04:12] I wouldn't be your favorite historian if I didn't bring you the facts- Let's dig into the backstory of The Fresh Start Effect and learn how this phenomenon went viral.
- [00:06:13] It's customary for us to start at the beginning (#hellohistory). Here we dissect The Fresh Start Effect origin story and why researchers felt it was necessary to put some language and research around the collective motivation we all feel when a New Year or milestone date grants us a fresh start.
- [00:07:08] What is a temporal landmark, and most importantly, how can we use this fresh start effect to help us reach our goals? Luckily, the experts have given us a study to learn from and emulate.
- [00:07:53] The fresh start effect has been studied in depth by three stars of the behavioral science world. Tune in to hear about the science that proves The Fresh Start Effect isn't a theory but a scientific reality.
- [00:09:50] What magical power does the month of January hold over people? Find out what the research says, and let me know if anything rings true for you.
- [00:11:26] All research starts with a solid hypothesis, and this fresh start effect is no different. Tune in to learn about the theory, variables, results, and implications of the science on you and your goals.
- [00:16:08] Ready to go all gas, no break toward your resolutions? Not so fast, let's read the fine print and examine the dark side of fresh starts and when we should pause and proceed with caution.
- [00:19:39] Tips for maximizing The Fresh Start Effect without falling into the dark side: Ready to put the fresh start effect into action? Here are a few tips on using temporal landmarks in your goal-planning process.
- [00:26:05] Our next episode drops on Wednesday, January 18, 2023, and our discussion is around The Chinese New Year. Will you be tuning in? Let me know in the comments.
Research Information:
1. Katherine Milkman, PhD., at Harvard, who is currently a Professor at the Wharton School
2. Hengchen Dai GRW 15, who received her Ph.D. in OID at Wharton in 2015 and is now an Assistant Professor of Management and Organizations and Behavioral Decision Making at UCLA;
3. Jason Riis, Ph.D., former Wharton Lecturer and Research Scholar and now Chief Behavioral Scientist at Behavioralize
Stay in Touch:
Visit our website. Follow the podcast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate. To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
The episode was researched and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (Toya From Harlem).

STAY IN TOUCH:
- Visit our website.
- Follow and tag @thatwasntinmytextbook on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
- Sign up for podcast newsletter
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Research and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (@ToyaFromHarlem).
Edited and Mixed by Chris Mann
Music Licensed through Epidemic Sound
18 January 2024, 1:15 pm
12 minutes 30 seconds
History of New Year Resolutions: How Resolutions Became a Thing?
Tis the season for reinventing ourselves, making list of ins and outs and creating the R word- New Year Resolutions - but ever wondered how New Year Resolutions all started? Listen to this episode to uncover how annual promises became an essential part of our lives- think ancient times and middle east.
Fun fact: While 45 percent of Americans dive into New Year's resolutions, only a cool 9 percent see them through. Yes! That is a horrible success rate.
Tune into this episode to learn:
- The connection between ancient folks and the resolutions you're jotting down today.
- Figure out how the threat of the Gods shapes our yearly goal-setting
- The unexpected twists and turns resolutions have taken over the centuries
- And for a little razzle dazzle, when the New Year should actually go down
So, before write down anymore resolutions and create anymore vision boards, press play and let's time-travel together to the bottom of this whole resolution thang.
Ready for a journey through time? Listen to the episode to find out! 🎧✨
Keep in touch:
- Visit our website. Follow the podcast on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and watch episodes on **Youtube a**nd feel free to donate.
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn
Sources:
- https://www.merriam-webster.com/wordplay/when-did-new-years-resolutions-start
- https://www.history.com/news/the-history-of-new-years-resolutions
- https://www.insightvacations.com/blog/new-years-resolutions/
- https://www.economist.com/the-economist-explains/2018/01/05/the-origin-of-new-years-resolutions?ppccampaignID=&ppcadID=&ppcgclID=&utm_medium=cpc.adword.pd&utm_source=google&ppccampaignID=17210591673&ppcadID=&utm_campaign=a.22brand_pmax&utm_content=conversion.direct-response.anonymous&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAy9msBhD0ARIsANbk0A_7ISr5BwQhpwU3qSOUMn0aZ8Y2oxotSrCmn-2k4-UG-FGHWy2YhPIaAnJLEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds
STAY IN TOUCH:
- Visit our website.
- Follow and tag @thatwasntinmytextbook on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
- Sign up for podcast newsletter
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Research and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (@ToyaFromHarlem).
Edited and Mixed by Chris Mann
Music Licensed through Epidemic Sound
4 January 2024, 3:49 pm
1 hour 25 minutes
The 1st American Heroes: History of Black Cowboys with Historian and Host of Black Cowboys podcast Zaron Burnett
Did you know? Before the Civil War, one in four cowboys was Black, a fact that highlights their integral role in shaping the American West.
In this captivating episode of "The Hidden History of Black Cowboys," we journey into the American West to uncover a piece of history that's often overlooked and that Hollywood tells us is white. With our special guest, Zaron Burnett, a renowned writer, journalist, and the host of the acclaimed podcast "BLACK COWBOYS," you'll learn:
- The True American Cowboy: Discover the fascinating truth that before the Civil War, one in four cowboys was Black, reshaping our understanding of this iconic figure.
- Unveiling Hollywood Myths: Explore how Hollywood's portrayal of cowboys has perpetuated myths and stereotypes, and how this episode challenges those narratives.
- Invaluable Contributions: Learn about the often-unsung contributions of Black cowboys and cowgirls to the cattle industry, trailblazing horsemanship, and the cowboy way of life, proving them to be true American heroes.
- Zaron Burnett's Insights: Gain valuable insights from our guest, Zaron Burnett, as he shares his deep knowledge of the Black West and its hidden history.
- Intersections of Race and History: Explore the intersections of race, class, politics, and underlying power dynamics within the context of the cowboy narrative.
Grab your headphones and join us as we ride through history with Zaron Burnett and unveil the remarkable legacy of Black cowboys and cowgirls in the American West, celebrating them as true American heroes.
Streaming where ever you listen to podcast
Keep in touch:
- Visit our website. Follow the podcast on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and watch episodes on Youtube and feel free to donate.
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn
- To learn more about today's podcast guest Zaron Burnett III. Connect with Zaron by listening to his Black Cowboys podcast, Instagram, his true crime podcast, Twitter (X),
Sources:
STAY IN TOUCH:
- Visit our website.
- Follow and tag @thatwasntinmytextbook on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
- Sign up for podcast newsletter
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Research and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (@ToyaFromHarlem).
Edited and Mixed by Chris Mann
Music Licensed through Epidemic Sound
21 September 2023, 12:15 pm
29 minutes 16 seconds
Ridin’ the Waves: The Hidden Black History of Surfing
In this episode, we're diving into the rich history of Black folks in the world of surfing. Many text say the first accounts of surfing started in Hawaii in 1778 but evidence shows otherwise. From the shores of West Africa to the modern-day waves, we're uncovering how Black folks have been riding the waves since the 1640s and carving out safe spaces in surfing today.
What You'll Learn:
- The origins of Black individuals riding waves as far back as the 1640s.
- The cultural significance of surf-canoes in West Africa and their connection to spirituality.
- The pioneering spirit of early Black surfers who defied racial barriers.
- How the legacy of Black surfers laid the foundation for today's diverse surfing community.
- Inspiring stories of contemporary Black surfers who continue to make waves in the sport.
- The intersection of surfing, identity, and empowerment within the Black surfing community.
Tune in to discover the fascinating stories, achievements, and contributions that have shaped the hidden Black history of surfing. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a curious listener, this episode promises to uncover a narrative that deserves to be heard.
Keep in touch:
- Visit our website. Follow the podcast on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and watch episodes on Youtube and feel free to donate.
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn
Sources:
Books Sources:
- AFROSURF by Mami Wata: 9781984860408 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books. (2021, June 15). PenguinRandomhouse.com. https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/677237/afrosurf-by-mami-wata-foreword-by-selema-masekela/
- Undercurrents of Power: Aquatic Culture in the African Diaspora (The Early Modern Americas): 9780812249897: Dawson, Kevin: Books. (n.d.). https://www.perlego.com/book/731624/undercurrents-of-power-aquatic-culture-in-the-african-diaspora-pdf?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&campaignid=19700019274&adgroupid=146555143616&gclid=CjwKCAjww7KmBhAyEiwA5-PUSiXSeYzrG5eS2JenDX-ejYJWdiYUux3oW5_V_cnKx0WtLcBhDhwnexoCS3gQAvD_BwE
STAY IN TOUCH:
- Visit our website.
- Follow and tag @thatwasntinmytextbook on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
- Sign up for podcast newsletter
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Research and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (@ToyaFromHarlem).
Edited and Mixed by Chris Mann
Music Licensed through Epidemic Sound
4 August 2023, 2:41 pm
14 minutes 4 seconds
History of Barbie: The Creation of Black Barbie
Celebrate the Barbie Movie premiere weekend by uncovering a fascinating journey through Barbie's history, shining a spotlight on the empowering story of Black Barbie. From Francie's flop to glamour of Black Barbie's, discover the inspiring evolution of this iconic doll!
In this short bonus -solo episode your host Toya, gives you all the tea and receipts on Barbie. You even get to find out her real name.
In this episode you will learn:
- Discover the visionary creator behind Barbie and the inspiration behind her creation.
- Uncover the intriguing history of Mattel's attempts to create a Black doll/Barbie, from hits to misses.
- Dive into the details of the first-ever Black Barbie, her design, and the talented mind behind her creation.
- And much more as we explore the captivating journey of Barbie, with a spotlight on the empowering history of Black Barbie!
Grab your headphones and put on your Barbie pink and listen to this episode where ever you listen to podcast.
Keep in touch:
- Visit our website. Follow the podcast on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and watch episodes on Youtube and feel free to donate.
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn
Where I get my info from:
STAY IN TOUCH:
- Visit our website.
- Follow and tag @thatwasntinmytextbook on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
- Sign up for podcast newsletter
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Research and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (@ToyaFromHarlem).
Edited and Mixed by Chris Mann
Music Licensed through Epidemic Sound
21 July 2023, 12:15 pm
1 hour 2 minutes
History of Oyster: How Black Folks Shaped American Oyster Culture with Culinary Historian Zella Palmer
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating story of how Black brilliance played a crucial role in shaping American Oyster culture. From pioneering techniques to thriving communities, we explore the remarkable contributions that have influenced the oyster industry and how we enjoy oysters today.
Joining us is special guest Zella Palmer, a renowned culinary historian, podcaster, and author.
Topics Covered in the Episode:
- Enslaved Africans and their water-working skills brought from West Africa
- Oyster harvesting techniques and the expertise of Black oystermen
- Establishment of thriving Black oyster towns
- The inspiring story of Thomas Downing, the Oyster King of NYC
- Cultural traditions and culinary impact of Black oyster culture
- The lasting legacy and influence on how we eat and harvest oysters today
Pick up your headphones and tune into this episode where ever you listen to podcast.
Keep in touch:
- To learn more about today's guest Zella Palmer, visit Zella's Instagram, Twitter, Book and Podcast.
- Visit our website. Follow the podcast on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and watch episodes on Youtube and feel free to donate.
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn
Where I get my info from:
STAY IN TOUCH:
- Visit our website.
- Follow and tag @thatwasntinmytextbook on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
- Sign up for podcast newsletter
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Research and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (@ToyaFromHarlem).
Edited and Mixed by Chris Mann
Music Licensed through Epidemic Sound
13 July 2023, 3:37 pm
3 minutes 47 seconds
Sizzling Summer Session Trailer
This summer on the podcast, we're bringing together the pure joy of summertime with the thrill of uncovering untold histories that center around summer-themed topics. From the history of surfing to the history of Black cowboys.
This summer session of podcast episodes is the adult summer camp you never knew you always wanted to go to. Where you see your friends everyday, take mad cool field trips all over the city and have those big belly laughs and all that good stuff. Think of this as the magic school bus for adults. -where it is all fun and games and we don’t worry about work, bills and those other stressful adulting tasks !
Each episode is handpicked by me your historian homie and is a part of our exclusive summer Session, taking you on a journey through four captivating topics that will leave you inspired, feeling mad smart, in some cases maybe a little hungry but very entertained.
So you ready? Let’s get into our summer session of podcast episodes that have a summer theme.
So let’s have a lit ass summer together in this summer session, where we'll have good ass time, learn a little something something, and make the most of this unforgettable summer session.
This is 'That Wasn't in My Textbook'—the summer session you don't want to miss.

STAY IN TOUCH:
- Visit our website.
- Follow and tag @thatwasntinmytextbook on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
- Sign up for podcast newsletter
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Research and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (@ToyaFromHarlem).
Edited and Mixed by Chris Mann
Music Licensed through Epidemic Sound
13 July 2023, 3:28 pm
30 minutes 8 seconds
When July 4th Was A Black Holiday: Rediscovering a Hidden Turn Up
Did you know there was a time when July 4th was a Black holiday? Yep! Listen to find out when, why, and how Black folks made July 4th their own holiday, while also learning the remarkable ways movements and activists have used America's Birthday to continue the ongoing fight for equality.
In this quick 30-minute solo episode , you'll learn:
- What does July 4th truly represent? And why do we celebrate it?
- How July 4th became a platform for challenging America's institution of slavery and calling for its abolition.
- When July 4th became a Black holiday? And the ways Black folks use to go hard and turn up on the July fourth.
- the remarkable ways movements and activists have used America's Birthday to continue the ongoing fight for equality.
Press play on this episode, if you're ready to kick off July 4th weekend with history, facts and receipts on how America's birthday meaning has changed throughout time.
Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your favorite podcasts
Keep in touch:
- Visit our website. Follow the podcast on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and watch episodes on Youtube and feel free to donate.
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn
Where I get my info from:
.

STAY IN TOUCH:
- Visit our website.
- Follow and tag @thatwasntinmytextbook on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
- Sign up for podcast newsletter
- To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Research and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (@ToyaFromHarlem).
Edited and Mixed by Chris Mann
Music Licensed through Epidemic Sound
29 June 2023, 1:00 pm
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