Paulina Stevens grew up in an insular Romani American family, destined to leave school, marry young and become a fortuneteller. By 17, her fate was sealed — until she decided to leave it all behind.
The “Foretold” podcast follows Paulina as she navigates the consequences of her decision to leave her community and redefine her identity. Hosted by Los Angeles Times reporter Faith Pinho, “Foretold” will take you past the neon “psychic” signs and trendy tarot cards to unravel myths and stereotypes that have followed the Romani people for centuries.
“Foretold” is a limited series. Find all nine episodes below and follow wherever you get your podcasts.
Episode 9: This Was Foretold
‘Foretold’ podcast showcases a Romani guitar-playing style that's 'doomed'
Fortunetellers and other spiritual advisors are in the business of selling human connection and opportunities for introspection.
Romani spiritualists face negative stereotypes about our practices. But our traditions have deep roots and have sustained us for centuries.
I faced racism from white feminists. But Black thinkers taught me about intersectionality and I learned to define my own Romani feminism.
On the ‘Foretold’ podcast, Paulina Stevens talks about her wedding to Bobby and the sequence of events that led her there. It’s relatable.
Growing up in Russia, my family wasn’t taught to be proud of our Romani roots. But the diversity of L.A.’s language and music changed us.
I love Romani heritage and symbols of our unity, including our flag. But celebrating our history of resistance doesn’t mean erasing our unique individual identities.
‘Foretold,’ a new podcast from the L.A. Times, premieres on April 11.
