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WBEZ’s critically-acclaimed bio-podcast series explores how an icon is made.

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Making Oprah. Making Obama. Making Beyoncé.

WBEZ’s critically-acclaimed bio-podcast series explores how an icon is made. Providing an unmatched view from the beginning, all the way to the their rise to the top.

Recent

  • Making Beyoncé Episode 3: Destiny Begins

    After Girls Tyme dissolves, Beyoncé and the other girls begin building their new group, Destiny’s Child. Finally, things start to click.

    Listen — 33:41

  • Making Beyoncé Episode 2: Star Search

    In 1993, Beyoncé Knowles and the members of Girls Tyme competed in the popular TV talent competition Star Search, hoping to find stardom.

    Listen — 37:10

  • Obama BONUS: The Decision

    In 2007, Barack Obama announced his presidential run. Hear how he came to that decision in this ‘Making Obama’ extra.

    Listen — 21:42

  • Obama 6: Yes We Can!

    Barack Obama burst onto the national stage during his U.S. Senate run. Hear how ambition and luck propelled him to Washington.

    Listen — 58:50

  • Obama 5: Up Or Out

    Former president Barack Obama has only lost one election. It was in 2000, and that defeat set him on the course for his U.S. Senate run.

    Listen — 55:39

  • Obama 4: Wait Your Turn

    In 2000, Barack Obama ran for Congress against a Chicago political legend. It became a contest about race and identity.

    Listen — 56:15

  • Obama 3: You Don’t Say No To Barack

    Former President Barack Obama won his first political seat in 1996. Hear what he had to learn, and the conflicts he faced, to get there.

    Listen — 56:46