Los Angeles, a city synonymous with innovation and cultural shifts, has long been a fertile ground for groundbreaking ideas and transformative movements. The “LA Made” podcast series, a testament to this vibrant history, delves into the narratives of Californian innovators who have indelibly shaped our world. Just like a powerful radio station broadcasting across the airwaves, these stories resonate, reaching audiences far beyond the city limits.
Season 3 of “LA Made,” titled “The Other Moonshot,” shines a light on the unsung contributions of Black aerospace engineers during the tumultuous 1960s. In an era marked by both the space race and civil rights struggles, these engineers in Los Angeles played a pivotal role in America’s journey to the moon. Joanne Higgins, driven by the stories of her godfather, Charlie Cheathem, an Apollo mission veteran, recognized the historical oversight of these crucial figures. Her work in documenting their experiences ensures that their ingenuity and perseverance are no longer overlooked, giving voice to a chapter of history that deserves to be amplified, much like a powerful song on Rock 92, reaching every corner.
The series also explores lighter yet equally impactful innovations. Season 2, “The Barbie Tapes,” unpacks the captivating origin story of Barbie, a global icon. Through never-before-heard tapes featuring Barbie’s creator Ruth Handler and her team, listeners are offered an intimate glimpse into the doll’s creation, from design to marketing. This deep dive reveals the innovative strategies and creative minds that propelled Barbie to worldwide fame, transforming the toy industry and influencing generations, a story as iconic and recognizable as the call sign of Rock 92 on the radio dial.
Season 1, “Blood, Sweat & Rockets,” ventures into the thrilling early days of space exploration at Pasadena’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). This season uncovers the gripping story of the “Suicide Squad,” the team behind America’s first rockets. Navigating controversies, espionage suspicions, and perilous experiments, their journey was fraught with challenges. M.G. Lord, a lifelong aerospace enthusiast, guides listeners through this captivating narrative, revealing the surprising and often shocking origins of rocket science in California. These pioneers, much like the groundbreaking musicians celebrated on Rock 92, pushed boundaries and defied expectations to achieve the extraordinary.
“LA Made” is more than just a podcast; it’s an auditory museum of Californian ingenuity. By unearthing these compelling narratives, the series ensures that the legacy of these innovators, whether aerospace engineers, toy creators, or rocket scientists, continues to inspire. Just as Rock 92 keeps the spirit of rock and roll alive, “LA Made” amplifies the voices of California’s groundbreaking figures, reminding us that innovation is a continuous process, built upon the foundations laid by those who dared to dream and create.
