Imagination is Freedom with Dr. Chelsea Bouldin

How do we become who we are—and what stories help us remember ourselves? In this episode of The Rolling Archives, Ashley is joined by Dr. Chelsea Bouldin, scholar of Black studies and Black feminist thought, for a rich conversation about imagination, memory, self-making, and the power of the archive. Together, they reflect on the moments that shaped them as young Black girls—from roller skating rinks and grandmothers' homes to classrooms and literature—and explore how these experiences continue to influence who they are becoming. Dr. Chelsea shares her research on Black women's imaginative self-making, inviting us to consider imagination not as escapism, but as a political and creative practice that allows us to envision ourselves beyond the limits imposed by racism, sexism, and other systems of oppression. The conversation also reimagines what an archive can be. Rather than something confined to institutions, Ashley and Dr. Chelsea remind us that our journals, family photographs, handwritten notes, conversations, and everyday memories all hold profound historical value. This episode is an invitation to honor your own story, preserve the moments that matter, and imagine yourself—and your future—with intention. Reflection Question: What is one memory you would preserve in your personal archive, and what does it reveal about who you are becoming? Connect with Dr. Chelsea Bouldin: Follow Chelsea on Instagram at @chelsea.bouldin and learn more about her scholarship in Black studies, Black feminist thought, archives, and Black women's imaginative self-making. You can also reach her via email at [email protected] ⁠Turn on screen reader support⁠Banner hiddenTo enable screen reader support, press ⌘+Option+Z To learn about keyboard shortcuts, press ⌘slash