When Magic Happens
WBEZ Chicago
Three Black women. Three generations. No filters.
When Magic Happens Final Bow
There are not enough words to describe the journey of bringing to life When Magic Happens. In our series finale of When Magic Happens, we reflect on the moments, the people, and the magic of the show. Week after week, we have brought stories that made us think, laugh, and cry, and we are so grateful for our When Magic Happens family for rocking with us. To our magical guests, we thank you. To our producers and contributors, we appreciate you, and to the “Destiny’s Child” of podcasts, Cheryle, Je
Dating Smarter, Not Harder
These dating streets are not for the faint of heart, y’all. As Black women, dating can be, well, complicated. There are moments of abundance and moments of scarcity, moments of maturity and moments with a man-child, moments of pretentiousness and potential. To guide us with some insight and helpful tips, we invite the woman who’s seen it all and coached women through it all, Cheryl Grace, CEO of Powerful Penny LLC. She specializes in holistic transformation in career and love for women of all ag
A Conversation with Mom
Mothers are like superheroes, they don’t always wear capes, but they seem like they always know how to save the day. When they take off their proverbial capes, who are they as people? What is their secret to being our mothers, why did they instill certain values and while they’ve helped our dreams come true, what are theirs? This week, in honor of Mother’s Day, Taylor, Jennifer, and Cheryle sit down with their moms to ask questions they’ve never asked before, and the answers might have you shed
Give and Take! Transactional Relationships
It’s been said that in modern relationships, something’s got to give, or rather, someone’s got to give and someone’s got to take. This week, we talk about transactional relationships between men and women in romantic relationships and situationships. Does it take a Birkin or a night cap to win the affections of another?
Cosmetic Enhancements! Better or Botched?
Since the invention of plastic surgery, many people have undergone cosmetic procedures for a plethora of reasons. This week, we dive into cosmetic procedures, pros and cons, and we talk about our own personal experiences with cosmetic, surgical procedures.
Hiring and Firing Friends
Friendships are beautiful and complex, and sometimes we treat them like automated subscriptions. We keep friendships in our lives when they’ve reached their expiration date. This week, we discuss the art of hiring and firing friends, how to do a friendship audit, how to recognize shifts in friends, and how to make and maintain friendships with people that are aligned with your growth.
The Growth Hour with Dr. Grace Johnson
When it comes to our goals, we’ve always heard that the journey is more important than the destination, and the process is important, but how many of us actually want to meet those end goals, too? Ain’t no shame in your game! This week, we invited Dr. Grace Johnson, principal of SwellCrest Solutions. Design thinking and community and business curation is her area of expertise. She’s also cousin to Jennifer and creator of their weekly exercise that helps put actionable steps in the goal setting p
What’s Your Sign?
What’s your sign? Pisces? Gemini? Capricorn? We’re talking all things zodiac signs. What’s your sign and what does it say about you? Do we believe zodiac signs are helpful or just hype?
Dreams and Nightmares
Sweet dreams are made of this–from recurring dreams, to nightmares, to the prophetic and the risqué, dreams can tell us a lot about ourselves and our subconscious. This week, we share some of the dreams that our brains conjure up for us and share our interpretations of our dreams. Does dreaming of fish mean we’re having a baby? Does dreaming of a well-built man mean our handsome hunk is coming? And what could a dinosaur chasing us through the yard mean? Let’s find out.
Documentary Club - The Greatest Night in Pop
Welcome to our first documentary club! We at WMH love a good documentary, and this week, we watched Netflix’s The Greatest Night in Pop. It’s a documentary about the making of the hit song “We Are the World,” where legendary musical artists came together to raise money for U.S.A. for Africa. The song was an immediate hit and the night that it took to rally together the biggest stars of the 80s for one song, was nothing short of monumental. We get into all the details of the film in this first it
This Woman’s Work
Black women have been pioneers and trailblazers in so many work environments, enduring, surviving, and thriving despite adversity. But surviving the workplace has been no crystal stair. We’ve fought against every “-ism” under the sun, put in thrice the effort to stay on top, all while trying to do it with a smile. This week, we dive into the stories of our first big girl jobs, the challenges thereof, and share some helpful tips for any Black woman trying to thrive and be treated with respect in
Ring, Ring, Ring! The Cell Phone Revolution
Ring, ring, ring! It’s us, When Magic Happens. Do y’all remember rotary phones, calling your voicemail, or what about the invention of caller ID? When cell phones became a thing, what was in your pocket, and could the phone even fit? This week, we talk about phones and the revolution they’ve brought to life as we know it, the things we used to do on them back in the day (*66, or was it *69?) We’re giving the 411 on all our cell phone memories, and we’re reviving the phrase “411.”
Women’s History Month Kickoff
It’s Women’s History Month, and this month is all about us! As we transition out of Black History Month and into Women’s History Month, it’s giving “this is an us season.” As Black women, we experience a lot, joy and triumph, pain and perseverance, and this week, we get into the ups and downs and how we can champion ourselves and each other.
When Magic Happens First Anniversary
Happy anniversary to the whole When Magic Happens family! It’s our first anniversary, and we are reflecting on the joy, the laughter and the magic that has blossomed from this podcast over the last year and from our greater When Magic Happens community. Raise a glass, y’all!
The Greatest Love of All
It’s the season of love, and we’ve got 525,600 reasons why we not only love our friends, families, and partners, but ourselves. This week, from the bottom of our hearts, we pour out how and why we love ourselves and we share our ultimate me-dates.
BHM Pass the Mic: The Rundown
Happy Black History Month, again! This week, we pass the mic to our friends over at the Rundown Podcast. Erin Allen sits down with Arionne Nettles, who is a lecturer and the Director of Audio Journalism Programming at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. Together, they reflect on our living legends, interrogate the term “Black excellence,” and they bring some nerdy flavor to the topic of Black futures in Chicago.
Black History Is Now
Happy Black History Month! We observe this time by looking back on the trailblazers, the peacemakers, and the folks that got in some “good trouble” as well as the Black folks who are making history now and carrying on traditions. Black history is expansive. It is relevant. Black history is now.
Schoolin’ Life
It’s Cheryle’s birthday, she’s 50-fine, and she’s ready to talk about aging with us and the WMH family. What’s the big deal about getting older, and why are we so obsessed with youth? Plus, we have two guest hosts in the building, a crowd favorite, Erin Allen of WBEZ’s The Rundown, and our magical producer Briana Garrett.
She Ain’t No Diva
Tell us something, where your boss at? Calling all divas to the stage! We need to know what are the makings of a diva? Is it about the opulence and execution, is it about the talent and/or the ‘tude? And is the “diva” dying, or has the word taken on a whole new meaning?
Battle of the TV Shows
It’s the Battle of the TV Shows, choose your fighter! What type of TV-watcher are you? True crime? Documentary? Reality TV? The hosts have their own picks and they’re convinced they can get you to join them in watching their favorite series.’
New Year, New Energy, Still Bold
New year, who this? 2023? We’ve never heard of her. We’re making room for all that 2024 will bring, and that means new adventures, new discoveries, new hobbies, new peace, love, and positivity. Turn to your neighbor and tell them, “the dreamers are back, new boldness is on the way!” Get ready, WMH family, because we’re only going up from here!
Our Favorite Things of 2023
When the dog barks, when the bee stings, when we’re feeling bad, we simply remember our favorite things of 2023! 2023 has been full of ups and downs, and we’re here to talk about the good, the bad, and the many cute moments of our year. We’re wrapping this year strong, y’all!
Throw It Back! Where the Nerds At?
We're ending the year with one of our favorite episodes from the show! Calling all nerds to the front of the line! We're talking about nerd and geek culture in this week's episode. Taylor, Cheryle and Jennifer share their nerdy hobbies and interests, and we discuss why some alternative hobbies challenge traditional notions of Blackness. Then, we are joined by author and entrepreneur Jacque Aye, who is unapologetically black, nerdy and neurodivergent.
I See You, Sis
A head nod, a pat on the back, an encouraging smile–these are some of the many ways we can communicate the phrase “I see you.” What does it mean to be seen or to see someone for who they are? It can make a world of a difference, and this week, Cheryle, Jennifer, and Taylor recount moments that made them feel seen in this world and the joy of truly seeing others as they are.
A When Magic Happens Holiday
It’s the holiday season, and we are in high spirits and hoping to pour some too! It’s a season to get cozy with loved ones, to share in merriment, reflect, and spread good energy. What makes your holiday season special? Is it the music, the food, the gifts, the people? It’s a When Magic Happens holiday, so let’s pop some champagne, bump some Nat King Cole, and queue up some holiday fun, WMH-style.
Oh, To Be a Kid Again
Remember mud pies and catching fireflies? Coming home before the lights came on? Remember a time before bills? Oh, to be a kid again. This week, Cheryle, Jennifer and Taylor look back at their childhoods, bringing all the nostalgic feels, the memories, and the lessons that we can apply to our adult selves.
What Are We Binge-watching?
From vintage sitcom marathons to guilty pleasure trash TV, we’re spilling everything we’ve been watching. Plus, we are joined by guest host, journalist and host of WBEZ’s Reset Sasha-Ann Simons, and she’s got the breakdown of #bachelornation!
A When Magic Happens Thanksgiving
With Thanksgiving around the corner, we need to know what’s on the table and what’s on your plate. Is it low or high vibrational? This week, we’re talking about our Thanksgiving traditions, the people we love, and the food that makes the holiday chef’s kiss. Plus we’ve got some hilarious food debate that’ll have you wondering which way the collard crinkles.
Dating Interracially
It’s no secret that we at When Magic Happens love love. This week, we talk about engaging in interracial relationships as Black women, our experiences dating within and outside our communities, new dating frameworks, and why love will always be love.
Let’s Talk About Sex
Let’s talk about sex. Remember those cringey sex education courses we had back in the day? The banana and the condom? Well, this isn’t that type of conversation. Welcome to When Magic Happens sex education, and we’re keeping everything raw and honest. We’re talking sex, pleasure, and intimacy with a WMH fave guest, gynecologist, and author of This is How You Vagina, Dr. Nicole. E. Williams.
Think Pink! Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and as we observe this important time, our hosts share what Breast Cancer Awareness means to them. We talk mammograms, the importance of knowing our bodies, and our When Magic Happens warrior, Cheryle, shares her intimate journey as a breast cancer survivor.
Throwback! Body-ody-ody-ody with Michaela Duerson
It’s fall and while some might say our summer bodies are in hibernation, WMH is here to remind y’all that a body is a body. In this throwback episode, cozy up with us as we learn to get cozy in our skin. Slim-thick, bean pole, pear, apple – how has your body been categorized? Cheryle, Jennifer and Taylor discuss body image and their relationships to their bodies over time. Then, we hear from Michaela Duerson, a plus-size model, talent agent, photographer and former gymnast, who explains the impo
Dear Mama
One thing about When Magic Happens? We love our mothers down. That’s why we’re talking about the special bond between mothers and daughters, the havoc we sometimes raise for our mamas, and the invaluable lessons we’ve learned from our mothers that make us want to be better humans.
Fall into fall
Autumn is upon us, y’all, and for some of us that means sugar cookies, pumpkin spice, and everything nice. We are gushing about our fall plans, our favorite fall activities, and Taylor and Jennifer are on a mission to make Cheryle a believer of the fall fever.
Hey Siri, what’s ChatGPT?
When it comes to chatbots and AI, are we curious or cautious? We dive code-deep into ChatGPT, what it is, how it can be used, and how it can be a major game changer. Plus, we’re joined by UK-based founder of Coders of Colour Tolúlọpẹ́ Ògúnrẹ̀mí, who breaks down the basics so we the merits and the precautions for this type of tech. We are also joined by founder of Black Women in AI, Professor Angle Bush, and she further teaches us about this new revolution in tech. If you’ve been wondering about
Thank you for being a friend
In a friendship, what type of friend are you, what does your circle look like, and what does that say about you? This week, we are chatting about the many seasons of friendship, how we show up for our people, and the lessons we are learning about friendship every day.
How Deep Is Your Love?
In a relationship, who loves more? And is there such a thing as loving equally, and if so, show us the tutorial! Plus, we’re joined by guest host, award-winning journalist and WBEZ reporter Natalie Moore.
The Art of Not Giving a Fudge
There comes a time when we all say “forget about it” and we let go, stepping into our soul selves. What’s your moment? This week, we are talking about the defining moments that helped us realize who we were and give less of a [redacted].
Girl, whatchu been up to?
Hey y’all!! We’re back and picking up where we left off, catching up with each other and sharing what we’ve been up to and what we’re doing next. Cheryle, Jennifer, and Taylor share their summer highlights, Renaissance tour experience, thoughts on The Barbie movie and their plans for the fall. Come catch up with us!
Bonus: Black People Love Paramore
Listen to this enthralling conversation between Black People Love Paramore Host Sequoia B Holmes and WMH host Taylor Coward. Put your paws up, because we’re talking all about Lady Gaga.
Aliens and the paranormal
This week we’re talking about aliens, paranormal activity and the plain old strange. Are we alone in the universe? Is Bigfoot real? Do leprechauns exist? Taylor, Cheryle and Jennifer answer these fun questions and more!
What are you bringing to the BBQ? with chef Dominique Leach
Get out those grills, bust out that butane and get ready to BBQ! This week we’re gushing about barbecue and barbecue traditions. Taylor, Cheryle and Jennifer share their essentials for the best family barbecue. Then we’re joined by pitmaster, TV personality, chef and owner of Lexington Betty Smokehouse, Dominique Leach. Leach sets the record straight on what qualifies as Chicago-style BBQ, breaks down the flavor profiles between wood and charcoal, and shares her top three tips for cooking ribs.
Living for We Crossover
This week we’re sharing an episode of Living for We, a podcast focused on the experiences of Black Women in Cleveland. Host Marlene Harris-Taylor uncovers how Cleveland was labeled the “Least Livable” city for Black women in a 2020 Bloomberg CityLab article. Bloomberg CityLab reporter Brentin Mock shares the story behind the livability index and how he worked with a Pittsburgh researcher who gathered the data. On the heels of the ranking, Black women in Cleveland are exploring how to finally esc
Sisterhood Heals with Dr. Joy
This week, we’re talking about mental wellness and healing. We’re learning about the symptoms of hyper independence, and how to cope with loneliness and anxiety. Taylor, Cheryle and Jennifer share their mental health journeys, and later, we are joined by clinical psychologist, author, and host of the Therapy for Black Girls podcast Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, who shares mental wellness tips, grounding exercises and discusses her latest book Sisterhood Heals.
Watch your mouth with Auntie Bev
Calling all logophiles! Grab a pen and dust off that dictionary, we’re talking about language and vocabulary this week! Jennifer, Cheryle and Taylor share their thoughts on the power of words. Then we’re joined by vocabulary queen, author and TikTok star Beverly Mahone, popularly known as Auntie Bev. Auntie Bev talks about where her love of words began and the importance of building a strong vocabulary. Plus she dishes out some of her favorite words. Want more magic? Sign up for our newsletter!
Globe-Trotting with Karina Worldwide
Pack your bags, baby, and take a trip with us as we explore the terrain of solo travel. We examine the fun, the luxury, and power, and the privilege of traveling internationally as Black women. Taylor, Cheryle and guest-host and host of the WBEZ podcast The Rundown Erin Allen share their travel experiences, and later we are joined by Travel vlogger, educator, and coach Karina Henry, better known as Karina Worldwide.
The Black Card (Dun Dun Dun) with Sequoia B. Holmes
The Black card, do you have one? Has your card ever been revoked? Have you ever revoked someone else’s? We’re answering these questions and more in this week’s episode all about “Blackness.” We’re examining ideas around performative blackness and society’s influence on our identities. Taylor, Cheryle and guest host, WBEZ reporter Adora Namigadde, share the current state of their Black cards. Plus, we’re joined by Sequoia B. Holmes, host of the Black People Love Paramore podcast.
One-on-one with Stacey Abrams
We’re picking up where we left off, highlighting the Black women who are currently fighting to save democracy. This week we had the opportunity to chat with political leader, voting rights activist and New York Times best-selling author Stacey Abrams. Abrams explains why Black women are often on the front lines of political activism, she breaks down the Supreme Court’s recent voting rights ruling in Alabama and its impact, plus she talks about the importance of finding your own political point o
Standing in our power with Hope Giselle
In the battle to save democracy, who is fighting for us? This week, we’re highlighting the Black women who have and are currently fighting for equality and justice, pushing against the status quo and dismantling systems of power. Taylor, Cheryle and Jennifer name the political leaders that inspire them, the historical pitfalls of democracy and how they choose to engage politically. Then we are joined by author, trans activist and diversity and inclusion specialist Hope Giselle.
Black music is now with Claudette Robinson, Sheila E. and Asha Omega
It’s Black Music Month and we're exploring the history, sound and legacy of Black music. Taylor, Jennifer, and Cheryle share the soundtracks of their lives and reminisce over songs that sparked memories of joy, strength and intimacy. Plus, we are joined by one of the founding members of The Miracles and The First Lady of Motown Claudette Robinson, legendary Percussionist and singer Sheila E. and Chicago legend-in-the-making Asha Omega.
Black men in the pulpit, Black women in the pews with Rev. Terri Hord Owens
We’re taking you to church this week y'all! Jennifer, Taylor and Cheryle examine the patriarchy and the power dynamics that are present in the Black church. They share their thoughts on the current state of the Black church and what they would like to see change. Then we’re joined by Rev. Terri Hord Owens, the General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada. She talks about her experience as the first person of color and second woman t
Home is where you make it with Shadai Brunjes
Where did you come from and where did you go? We’re examining the locations we choose to stay as Black women, and why. We take a peek at what life is like for Black Americans living abroad. Taylor, Jennifer and Cheryle discuss where they’ve been and the places that feel like home. Plus we are joined by TikTok travel blogger and beauty strategist Shadai Brunjes. She shares the ups and downs of her “Black Ass Life in Singapore,” and for any budding expats, she’s got tips on how to make the bi
Uncorked and Unbothered with Chrishon Lampley
Raise your glasses, ladies, and toast to the good life! We’re talking all about wine and wine culture in the Black community. Taylor, Jennifer and Cheryle discuss their relationship with wine and name their drinks of choice. Later, we are joined by negociant, founder and CEO of Love Cork Screw Wines Chrishon Lampley. Lampley talks about her work to make the wine community more accessible, the importance of following your dreams, she gives us great tips for selecting the right wine while we get a
Where the nerds at? with Jacque Aye
Calling all nerds to the front of the line! We're talking about nerd and geek culture in this week's episode. Taylor, Cheryle and Jennifer share their nerdy hobbies and interests, and we discuss why some alternative hobbies challenge traditional notions of Blackness. Then, we are joined by author and entrepreneur Jacque Aye, who is unapologetically Black, nerdy and neurodivergent.
Showing up and showing out with Frenchye Harris
It’s time to strike a pose! We’re talking all about fashion and reinvention for Black women. Taylor, Cheryle and Jennifer name their fashion icons and inspirations. Plus, Cheryle talks with Frenchye Harris, a former model, fashion consultant and founder of The Black Fashion Movement, a company that promotes and partners with the creators of Black-owned fashion brands. Harris tells us about the movement and how to create and sharpen your personal style.
Feel the burn with April Sutton
Get ready to sweat because this week, we are all about fitness! Jennifer, Cheryle and Taylor dish out their complex relationships with fitness and their hot takes on fitness culture. Plus, we hear from professional stuntwoman, actress and trainer April Sutton. She’s got tips on how to bring your sexy back this summer and beyond, and how to make fitness more fun.
It’s My Uterus: Black Maternal Health Part 2
We’re continuing our discussion on Black Maternal Health this week by focusing on the politics and policies that stand to threaten or protect the uterus – and their impact on the Black community. Cheryle, Taylor and Jennifer share their thoughts on the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Plus, we hear from Democratic Congresswoman Robin Kelly of Illinois, who discusses new legislation aimed at tackling the issues around Black Maternity and why we need more diversity in the healthcare pipeline.
Ooh Baby! Black Maternal Health Part 1
Ooh baby, baby! In honor of Black Maternal Health Week, we’re discussing Black maternal health, reproduction and quality gynecological care. We hear maternity journeys from not only our hosts but also from listeners like you. Later, we learn from gynecologist and surgeon Dr. Nicole E. Williams about the disparities Black women face when receiving care. She also explains why we need culturally competent advocates in the birthing room and the complex ties between Black history and gynecology. This
When Magic Happens: Real Talk with Sasha-Ann Simons
Jennifer, Cheryle and Taylor stop by WBEZ’s daily talk show Reset for a quick chat to discuss the origin of When Magic Happens, what they learn from each other and the art of oversharing.
Tell It Like It Is with the CAFE Group
As Black women, who can we trust to tell our stories and tell them accurately? This week we’re getting introspective and discussing the importance of stories told by and for Black women. We share the voices of some amazing, trailblazing Black women in the media who have and are currently breaking the traditional white landscape of storytelling and unapologetically telling it like it is. And a special thanks to Liz Thompson and The Cafe Group for hosting this conversation and allowing When Magic
The Come Up with Kieanji Williams
We all want to dream big and reach the mountaintop, but how do you deal when you’re stuck in the valley of it all? This week Cheryle, Jennifer and Taylor recount their struggle-bus eras and the ups and the downs in their careers. Then, we hear from Kieanji Williams, CEO and founder of NAKX, an independent film-streaming start-up, who tells us why she isn’t worried about the nay-sayers and why she lets the proof tell the story.
Body-ody-ody-ody with Michaela Duerson
Slim-thick, bean pole, pear, apple – how has your body been categorized? Cheryle, Jennifer and Taylor discuss body image and their relationships to their bodies over time. Then, we hear from Michaela Duerson, a plus-size model, talent agent, photographer and former gymnast, who explains the importance of appreciating our bodies at their many stages and why everyone is wrong.
Dolla dolla bills, y’all with Markia Brown
How exactly do you make a dollar out of 15 cents? We attempt to answer this question and more this week as we discuss all things money honey! Jennifer, Cheryle and Taylor share their stories on entrepreneurship, wealth-building and new approaches to making that coin in the age of technology. Plus, they talk with financial educator Markia Brown about getting your finances in order ASAP.
Whip my hair with AJ Johnson
The crackle of a hot comb, the sting of creamy crack, the wash ‘n’ go turned wash and fro – Black women’s hair has seen it all. This week, Cheryle, Jennifer and Taylor get follicles-deep into hair malfunctions, hair journeys, and beyond-hair stories.
Then, we hear from celebrity hair stylist AJ Johnson, who’s styled the best of the best, and he busts all your hair myths and teaches us how to practically get wiggy with it.
Relationshipping with Tennesha Wood
“And I am telling you, I’m not going,” a young Effie White once said. And let’s be real, we’ve all been dream girls, tethered to relationships way past their expiration date. This week, Jennifer, Taylor and Cheryle talk about why they stayed in relationships that weren’t working, why they eventually left, and new approaches to dating that shake things up. Then Jennifer talks with Tennesha Wood, matchmaker and founder of The Broom List, a matchmaking firm that serves Black, marriage-seeking profe
Use that ambition with Kim Foxx
We’ve all heard the tired saying “be twice as good to get half.” This week Cheryle, Jennifer and Taylor talk about weaponized ambition and finding motivation at different phases in life. Then, Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx reflects on her political journey, the battles she’s fought behind closed doors and the things that keep her rooted throughout the challenges of public-facing ambition.
Coming soon: When Magic Happens
When the tea is hot, where do you spill it? If your answer is the group chat, then look no further, because the group chat just added three new members. Introducing When Magic Happens, a new podcast by WBEZ Chicago, where intergenerational convos of love and laughter collide. Three Black women – Cheryle, Jennifer, and Taylor. Three generations. No filters.