A tribute from actor Victoria Rowell about the women who helped raise her struck a chord with me. In a special Mother’s Day episode of Advanced TV Herstory, I explore the profound impact of women who shape our lives. Aunts, grandmothers, cousins and even unrelated women contribute to nurturing young people. TV sends that message annually, but this podcast episode was inspired by Rowell’s compelling 2007 memoir, The Women Who Raised Me. Rowell is a two-time Emmy nominee and 11-time NAACP Image Award winner. Her book details her foster care journey and women who nurtured her to become a successful actor, dancer, and advocate.

Rowell is most well known for her roles on The Young and the Restless and Diagnosis: Murder. Her memoir details first-hand accounts of racism in the entertainment industry. Rowell uses her visibility to advocate for foster children and mental health, and her story is a testament to resilience and the power of community.

Join me in celebrating the women who help us find our voices! We know them as mothers, mentors, aunties and friends. This episode offers heartfelt reflections and resources to honor National Foster Care Month.