In this segment from Black Is America, host Dominic Lawson brings us to the starting line of three iconic races—three Black women in three different eras, each running not just against the clock but against the world's expectations.

Wilma Rudolph, who as a child was told she'd never walk again, shatters barriers at the 1960 Rome Olympics, becoming the fastest woman on the planet. Florence "Flo Jo" Griffith-Joyner stuns everyone with an unthinkable 10.49 seconds at the 1988 Olympic trials, setting a world record still untouched today. And in a race for redemption, Sha'Carri Richardson storms back at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, silencing every doubt.

Together, their stories weave a single, undeniable truth: Black women have always run toward greatness—even when the world told them to slow down.

On January 31st, 1988, under the bright lights of San Diego's Jack Murphy Stadium, Doug "Uncle Dougie" Williams made history as the first Black quarterback to start in a Super Bowl. Across from him stood NFL golden boy John Elway—and a chorus of doubts that had shadowed Black quarterbacks for decades.

The game couldn't have started worse: a 56-yard touchdown on Denver's first play, a 10–0 deficit by the end of the first quarter, and a painful knee injury that sent Williams to the sideline. But what followed wasn't just a comeback—it was a seismic statement.

In this episode, we relive:

• The relentless pressure of carrying history into the Super Bowl spotlight.

• The personal battles Williams overcame before even stepping onto the field.

• How one quarter of football—four touchdowns, a Super Bowl record—shattered stereotypes about Black quarterbacks.

• The enduring message his performance sent to the game, the league, and the culture.

Doug Williams didn't just play in Super Bowl XXII—he owned it. And in doing so, he answered every doubt with the kind of dominance you can't ignore.

Before he became a celebrated American hero, Sergeant First Class Alwyn "Al" Cashe was a kid from Oviedo, Florida—the youngest of ten, raised on hard work, family values, and a fearless spirit. In this episode, we trace the early life and influences that shaped him, from fishing trips and daredevil stunts to a father's timeless lesson: "Whatever you do, do it like you're putting your name on it."

But Cashe's story isn't told in isolation. We uncover the deep historical echoes between his boldness and the legacy of the Black Seminoles—descendants of Native Americans and escaped enslaved Africans who forged a free, armed, and thriving community in Florida. Led by John Horse, they fought the U.S. government in the Seminole Wars, staged the largest slave revolt in U.S. history, and eventually found refuge in Mexico.

In this episode you'll learn:

• How growing up in Seminole County connected Cashe to a legacy of resilience.

• The extraordinary story of John Horse and the Black Seminoles' fight for freedom.

• Why risk-taking and leadership often go hand-in-hand.

• How this history foreshadowed the courage Cashe would later display on the battlefield.

This is more than a military biography—it's a story of heritage, defiance, and the unbreakable will to protect one's people.

On October 17th, 2005, during his second tour in Iraq, Sergeant First Class Alwyn Cashe faced the unthinkable. A sandstorm forced his unit off aerial patrols and into Bradley Fighting Vehicles along a dangerous supply route near Samarra. When an improvised explosive device tore through his vehicle, igniting its fuel and trapping his men inside, Cashe—already soaked in fuel—ran headlong into enemy fire and an inferno to save them.

In this episode, we recount the minute-by-minute events of that night:

• The deadly conditions along the route to Balad Air Base.

• The devastating IED blast and the chaos that followed.

• Cashe's relentless rescue of all six soldiers and the interpreter—while on fire himself.

• His refusal to accept medical treatment until every one of his men was evacuated.

This is more than a war story. It's a story of devotion, leadership, and love for those under your charge. Cashe's actions that night would become one of the most extraordinary acts of heroism in modern military history—embodying the soldier's creed: I will never leave a fallen comrade.

In this episode of Black is America podcast, delve into the inspiring story of Sergeant First Class Alwyn Cashe, a remarkable African-American hero of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Host Dominic Lawson narrates the gripping account of Cashe's selfless bravery on a fateful night in October 2005. Learn about his early life in Oviedo, Florida, his distinguished military career, and the extraordinary courage he displayed when his unit was attacked by an IED.

This episode not only highlights Cashe's heroic actions but also explores the significant contributions of black non-commissioned officers throughout military history. Drawing parallels to historical figures like John Horse and the Black Seminoles, Lawson provides a rich, contextual narrative that honors the legacy of African-American soldiers.

Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, Alwyn Cashe's legacy is a testament to the valor and sacrifice of black soldiers. Join us as we celebrate his life, his heroism, and the lasting impact he has made on military history.

Episode Breakdown:

Introduction: The episode opens on a moonlit night on October 17, 2005, in the Aladin province of Iraq. Sergeant First Class Alwyn Cashe is on patrol with his unit when their Bradley fighting vehicle is struck by an IED, igniting a series of events that would define Cashe's legacy as an American hero.

Background: Listeners are taken through Cashe's early life in Oviedo, Florida, where he grew up as the youngest of ten siblings. Despite humble beginnings, Cashe's dedication and adventurous spirit led him to enlist in the United States Army in 1988. His military career spans multiple conflicts, including Operation Desert Storm, where he honed his leadership skills and built a reputation for courage under fire.

The Heroic Incident: The heart of the episode details the harrowing incident where Cashe's vehicle is hit by an IED. Despite being drenched in fuel and engulfed in flames, Cashe selflessly rescues his fellow soldiers, displaying unmatched bravery. His actions on that night, pulling each soldier from the burning vehicle while under enemy fire, highlight his extraordinary heroism and dedication.

Reflection and Legacy: The narrative reflects on the significant role of black non-commissioned officers in the military, drawing parallels between Cashe's actions and the historical bravery of figures like John Horse and the Black Seminoles. Personal anecdotes and historical context enrich the story, emphasizing the profound impact of African-American soldiers in shaping military history.

Recognition and Honors: The episode concludes with a tribute to Cashe's legacy, detailing the posthumous awards and recognitions he received, including the Medal of Honor. The story of Cashe's heroism continues to inspire, and his legacy is honored through various dedications, including military facilities and community spaces named in his memory.

That time Daniel "Chappie" James had to let Moammar Gadhafi know what was up

Sources for this episode include The United States Army, The Department of Defense, The White House, the Center for Disease Control, the program 60 Minutes courtesy of CBS News, C-Span, ABC 10 Sacramento, Dr. Amy Sturgis of Lenoir-Rhyne University in collaboration with Learn Liberty, The Washington Post, The Atlanta-Journal Constitution, The Los Angles Times The Orlando Sentinel, and the Honolulu Star Advertiser.