Harriet Tubman: Spy & Backcountry Badass | Dr. Edda Fields-Black | Ep. 020

Dr. Edda Fields-Black, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Cumbee, joins us in the studio for a gripping deep dive into the extraordinary life of Harriet Tubman. From her fearless missions on the Underground Railroad to her pivotal role as a spy and leader in the Combahee River Raid during the Civil War, Tubman’s story is brought to life with fresh insights and personal anecdotes. Dr. Fields-Black, whose ancestor fought alongside Tubman in the raid, shares her meticulous research and a powerful personal connection to this history. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation about:

  • Tubman’s early resistance to slavery and her escape to freedom
  • The daring strategies of her Underground Railroad rescues
  • Her critical role in the Combahee River Raid, liberating over 700 enslaved people
  • The environmental challenges she mastered in the wilderness
  • Dr. Fields-Black’s discovery of her family tie to the raid
  • Tubman’s legacy as a military strategist and backcountry badas

Links Mentioned in this Episode

Connect

Sponsors

  • Special thanks to our partners at Shared Pour! Visit SharedPour.com – Use code “BACKCOUNTRY” for 10% off at checkout.
  • Special thanks to our patterns at Out Yonder Company! Visit OutYonderCompany.com and use code “BACKCOUNTRY15” for 15% off at checkout.

Credits

  • “Welcome to the Backcountry” theme song by Logan Roth, Will Brown, Arjun Dube and produced at Treacle Mine Studios, Phila, PA Copyright Outdoor Visions Media LLC, 2025