On this episode of the Speaking of Phenomenal podcast, Tonika Lewis Johnson opens up about growing up in Englewood, the roots of her Folded Map Project, and why disrupting segregation starts with something as simple as running errands in a new neighborhood. Her story is proof that art, truth, and community care can transform policy—and hearts.

MUSIC (used with permission)
WOMAN Performed by Tiffany Villarreal - Pod artwork by Amanda Eich

Send us a text

Every moment in life has the potential to be phenomenal. At Amy Boyle Photography, we specialize in capturing those moments, whether it's for your business, a milestone event, or a personal portrait. As the host of the Speaking of Phenomenal Podcast, I know the power of storytelling—and I bring that same passion to my photography. Let’s create images that celebrate who you are and wh

If you're loving the stories and insights on the Speaking of Phenomenal podcast, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or GoodPods. Each 5 star review is appreciated, thank you!

Support the show

Thank you for joining us on this episode of Speaking of Phenomenal.

Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review and share the podcast, and stay tuned for more inspiring conversations.

In this week’s Speaking of Phenomenal with host Amy Boyle, Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Mary Schmich and marketing executive Melissa Harris share the story behind Division Street Revisited, their podcast inspired by Studs Terkel’s Division Street: America. Out of 71 original interviews, they revisited 7—including 4 remarkable women: Blanche Gates, Della Reuther, Mary Ward Wolkonsky and Myra Alexander. Their lives reflect resilience, complexity and quiet power. Mary and Melissa talk about memory, legacy and the courage it takes to reimagine history. Tune in to hear how honoring these stories brings us closer to understanding where we’ve been—and where we’re going.

MUSIC (used with permission)
WOMAN Performed by Tiffany Villarreal - Pod artwork by Amanda Eich

Additional audio clip: Will the Circle Be Unbroken performed by Chris Walz, Mary Schmich and guests at Old Town School of Folk Music Chicago, IL 3/21/25

Send us a text

Every moment in life has the potential to be phenomenal. At Amy Boyle Photography, we specialize in capturing those moments, whether it's for your business, a milestone event, or a personal portrait. As the host of the Speaking of Phenomenal Podcast, I know the power of storytelling—and I bring that same passion to my photography. Let’s create images that celebrate who you are and wh

If you're loving the stories and insights on the Speaking of Phenomenal podcast, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or GoodPods. Each 5 star review is appreciated, thank you!

Support the show

Thank you for joining us on this episode of Speaking of Phenomenal.

Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review and share the podcast, and stay tuned for more inspiring conversations.

In this episode of Speaking of Phenomenal, Dr. Anna Tess shares her journey from a profound hearing loss diagnosis to becoming a leader in deaf education. As FHSR's Education Coordinator, Anna offers vital insights for families navigating hearing loss, from IEP support to music therapy. Her story is a testament to resilience and advocacy. Listen to understand how inclusive education, early intervention, and empowered families create lifelong impact. A must-hear for parents, educators, and anyone who believes in possibility.

MUSIC (used with permission)
WOMAN Performed by Tiffany Villarreal - Pod artwork by Amanda Eich

Send us a text

Every moment in life has the potential to be phenomenal. At Amy Boyle Photography, we specialize in capturing those moments, whether it's for your business, a milestone event, or a personal portrait. As the host of the Speaking of Phenomenal Podcast, I know the power of storytelling—and I bring that same passion to my photography. Let’s create images that celebrate who you are and wh

If you're loving the stories and insights on the Speaking of Phenomenal podcast, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or GoodPods. Each 5 star review is appreciated, thank you!

Support the show

Thank you for joining us on this episode of Speaking of Phenomenal.

Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review and share the podcast, and stay tuned for more inspiring conversations.