Advanced TV Herstory: Recent Episodes

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Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams interviews Dr. Clare Sears about her upcoming book on Killing Eve for Wayne State University Press’s TV Milestone Series.

Dr. Sears explains why Killing Eve qualifies as milestone television. The series created groundbreaking queer representation and framing within the traditional spy thriller genre.

Further, Sears explains how Killing Eve's creators subverted the cat-and-mouse thriller to stage desire, obsession, and power in ways TV rarely allows women characters to inhabit.

They also explore the show’s lasting impact on contemporary television and the series's fandom's focus on every detail.

Wayne State University Press https://wsupress.wayne.edu/

Clare Sears, PhD https://claresears.com/

Past Advanced TV Herstory interviews from TV Milestone authors:

Women of the Americans, featuring Linda Mizejewski https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/e1a3d34b-bfb6-4e03-848e-bf067e98f87e.mp3

Murder She Wrote, Lansbury & the Power of Cozy Mysteries with Bridget Kies https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/bc08ce87-33ed-465f-904e-8ce604b5f9d2.mp3

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Monthly Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

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LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-bemis-abrams-5046573/

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Video Editing - https://nivialopez.com/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

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Summer means the anniversary episode of Advanced TV Herstory. Cynthia Bemis Abrams reflects on the journey of her podcast, sharing insights and stories that shaped episodes during the past year. She revisits instances from interviews and correspondence that fortify her examination of storytelling through TV, and how it documents social progress and challenges.

Highlights:* Gratitude and Community: Cynthia expresses her appreciation for the loyal listeners and contributors who have supported the podcast throughout its journey. * Impact of Broadcasting: Discussions with guests like Neil Sabin and Alissa Shapiro from Weigel Broadcasting explore the enduring power of cable TV in shaping cultural narratives. * Influential Women in TV: Cynthia shares conversations with actors such as Stepfanie Kramer, Denise Nicholas, and Jonelle Allen, highlighting the role of feminism and progressive writing in classic TV series like Hunter, Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, In the Heat of the Night and Room 222. * Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman: Cynthia plugs the 2025 interview about Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman with creator Beth Sullivan, about her approach to using history to tell universal stories with a moral twist. * Navigating AI and SEO: Cynthia candidly discusses the challenges posed by AI and SEO in the podcasting world, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and originality. * Personal Reflections: Heartfelt thanks to family and colleagues who have inspired and supported the podcast's mission.

Episodes Mentioned:Denise Nicholas; Trailblazing Actor & Writer

https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/62ef89a3-220d-452b-9a08-bad38d976087.mp3

Dr. Quinn Creator Beth Sullivan on Feminist Storytelling

https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/8bd5fcc8-c74d-4a63-8eaa-32df63503145.mp3

Hunter, Fame & Feminism with Stepfanie Kramer

https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/fa19d380-cfdf-4b17-9c43-75d8ee28a070.mp3

The Donna Reed Show: Feminism, Legacy & Innovation (Mary Owen)

https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/17aa1f7e-5795-46ba-bdae-7a5344b18944.mp3

Cable TV Profiles Regina Jones, Iconic “Soul” Founder (Alissa Shapiro)

https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/70d9fdac-6513-45a9-8336-6b10882d127d.mp3

MeTV Exec Neal Sabin on Classic & Comfort TV

https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/8493b35a-d505-4c3a-9008-55f55c0c3f70.mp3

Minnesota’s TV Legacy: Women, News & Cultural Power

https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/93855928-091e-49c5-89cd-6421967e8a99.mp3

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Monthly Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

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PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Video Editing - https://nivialopez.com/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

TIMESTAMPS

[00:37] Anniversary 2026

[02:37] Reviews and discoverability

[03:59] Guests in 2025-2026

[06:51] Operation Metro Surge

[07:52] The listener experience and website upgrade

[10:01] AI and SEO

[13:27] Protecting artists and creativity

[16:56] Mission and family

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Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams examines the pivotal moments in TV talk show history where hosts overstepped boundaries and guests were challenged to stand up for themselves. Through a series of iconic examples like Lily Tomlin's poised resistance on The Dick Cavett Show and Joan Rivers' sharp retort on CNN, Cynthia highlights the crucial role of media training and self-awareness.

When talk show hosts use their power to obtain a newsworthy moment and a guest challenges them, it's like listening to a game of chess.

This episode underscores the importance of understanding and asserting personal boundaries in the often unpredictable landscape of unscripted TV. Talk shows offer valuable insights about how to claim your backbone and set boundaries.

TIMESTAMPS

[00:37] You never know what's going to happen

[02:30] Past episodes about talk shows

[04:04] Boundaries and bullies

[07:55] Lily Tomlin on Cavett

[10:39] Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen on Oprah

[13:12] Lindsay Lohan on Letterman

[16:04] Mariah Carey on Ellen

[18:04] Joan Rivers on CNN

[23:13] Jane Fonda on Megyn Kelly Today

[26:39] What do you want to accomplish?

[27:40] Claim your space

[29:03] Know your self worth

REFERENCES

Lily Tomlin on The Dick Cavett Show - https://youtu.be/Pu89uzk9D54?si=aKde8jjz_A_KKuBH

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen on Oprah (via Daily Blast LIVE) - https://youtu.be/aSUATkfXo_w?si=PzfrLsHfxVO8_QRX

Lindsay Lohan on The Late Show with David Letterman (via The Oklahoman Video Archive) - https://youtu.be/aMKIJf8atDg?si=r2C5qkjRIzh2kHDn

Joan Rivers on CNN - https://youtu.be/6lKS-Et-VmE?si=f52bA8axcYWWb0Ww

Jane Fonda on Megyn Kelly Today - https://www.instagram.com/reels/DIEo-uTItSa/\

RELATED EPISODES

TV Talk Shows: Hellman v. McCarthy https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/8897c2ab-b7b8-46cb-8bfb-dacf024ff47a.mp3

TV Talk Show Moment, Vivien Leigh as Herself https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/788816bc-b4d5-4f2f-aad5-ef4282142025.mp3

Talk Show First, Della Reese https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/0e3c7f4b-6088-4674-b082-3ada529850b5.mp3

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Video Editing - https://nivialopez.com/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Monthly Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-bemis-abrams-5046573/

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Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams speaks with Denise Nicholas, the iconic actress and writer known for her roles in Room 222 (1969-75) and In the Heat of the Night (1988-95). Promoting her long-awaited 2025 memoir Finding Home, Denise opens up about her groundbreaking career in television, the cultural impact of her roles as Liz McIntyre and Harriet DeLong, and her transition to writing. Discover how her personal experiences and passion for storytelling led to her acclaimed novel, Freshwater Road, and the influence of her work on the representation of Black women in media. Denise also shares anecdotes about working with producer and co-star Carroll O’Connor and her journey to becoming a writer for In the Heat of the Night.

Highlights:

• The role of comedy and morality in "Room 222"
• Navigating network pressures and the need for diverse storytelling
• Inspirations behind herRoom 222character Liz McIntyre
• Behind-the-scenes ofIn the Heat of the Nightand writing the episode "Odessa"
• The portrayal of interracial relationships on television

Books Mentioned:

Finding Home (2025) Agate Publishing

https://www.agatepublishing.com/9781572843530/finding-home/

Freshwater Road (2005) Agate Publishing

https://www.agatepublishing.com/9781572841956/freshwater-road/

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

ATVH Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

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YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Video Editing - https://nivialopez.com/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

TIMESTAMPS

[00:34] Introduction: Denise Nicholas

[02:09] The 1960s and the Civil Rights Movement

[03:51] Black writers & women writers

[05:05] Room 222

[17:11] Abbott Elementary

[18:42] Writing and film work

[19:56] Freshwater Road

[22:08] Finding Home

[24:38] In the Heat of the Night

[32:42] Learn more

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Advanced TV Herstory's host Cynthia Bemis Abrams takes listeners on a deep dive into the profound connections between television, feminism, and broader cultural and political shifts.

Recorded in April 2026, Cynthia explores the implications of the newly revealed Epstein files and their potential impact on how we understand television from the 80s, 90s, and 2000s. She examines the role of powerful media figures and the male gaze in shaping TV content, particularly sitcoms, during these decades.

By analyzing the rise and fall of iconic sitcoms and comparing the portrayal of women in these shows, Cynthia sheds light on evolving power dynamics, the normalization of certain societal norms, and the exclusion of diverse voices. This episode is a must-listen for TV historians and anyone interested in understanding the intersection of media, culture, and gender politics.

• Introduction: Cynthia Bemis Abrams introduces the episode's focus on the hyper-sexualization of young women, via an excerpt from Gawker’s YouTube reel of creepy behavior by late night host David Letterman to his celebrity women guests.At the same time, big names we now know were affiliated with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein contributed to a drastic shift network offerings, feminism, and culture.
• The Impact of the Male Gaze: Discussion on how male-driven marketing and media influenced the portrayal of women and teenage sexuality in the 1980s and 1990s.
• TV Sitcoms and Female Representation: Analysis of the decline in strong female characters and the limited presence of women of color on TV in the 1990s and early 2000s.
• Influential Women Showrunners: Highlighting the contributions and subsequent sidelining of women like Linda Bloodworth Thomason, Diane English, and Susan Harris.
• Conclusion: Reflections on the lessons learned from past TV trends and the importance of recognizing historical patterns in shaping future media narratives.

Episode Resources

Gawker - David Letterman: Interacting with his female guests - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHNQwOz8BaI

Linda Bloodworth-Thomason: Creative Exile & Industry Impact https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/3128fef9-033e-4b9a-89d1-5d98461e69ed.mp3

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TV historian and host Cynthia Bemis Abrams welcomes Neal Sabin, Vice Chairman of Weigel Broadcasting, for a conversation about the enduring popularity of classic television and the role of "comfort TV" in modern broadcasting. Sabin oversees programming strategy for Weigel's widely distributed multicast networks, including MeTV, Catchy Comedy, Start TV, Heroes & Icons, Dabl, and Story Television Network.

Together they explore how classic television continues to find new audiences across broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms. In this episode, Sabin discusses the technical, legal, and creative work involved in preserving and presenting vintage television for modern viewers, including the conversion of older formats into high definition and the complexities of television rights and syndication.

Topics include:

• the continued popularity of comfort television and classic sitcoms;
• how classic shows like I Love Lucy remain cultural touchstones;
• the challenges of restoring and converting archival TV formats into HD;
• the evolving landscape of TV syndication and network programming, and
• how audiences discover classic television through modern platforms.

Sabin also discusses Weigel Broadcasting's streaming partnerships and how platforms such as Frndly TV, Philo, and Fubo are helping bring classic television programming to new generations of viewers.

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Monthly Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

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PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Video Editing - https://nivialopez.com/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

Weigel Broadcasting

Neal Sabin

MeTV

Catchy Comedy

Start TV

Dabl TV

Heroes & Icons

Story Television Network

classic television

comfort TV

television syndication

vintage television

I Love Lucy

Frndly TV

Philo

Fubo

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Lifelong Minnesotan and veteran podcaster Cynthia Bemis Abrams reflects on Minnesota's outsized influence on American television, journalism, and culture in this timely solo episode of Advanced TV Herstory. Prompted by recent federal immigration enforcement actions in Minneapolis beginning in December 2025, Cynthia revisits the mission of the podcast and reframes it through Minnesota's unique television legacy.

Cynthia highlights Minnesota-born or Minnesota-connected women who shaped American TV and public life, including Judy Garland, Jessica Lange, Lea Thompson, Marion Ross (Happy Days), Mary Tyler Moore, Loni Anderson and others. Cynthia also reflects on the role of comfort television, women in news, and storytelling during moments of national stress.

Closing the episode, Cynthia discusses the mood on the ground in Minnesota in January and February 2026 following the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. She explains constitutional principles raised by current government actions and shares vetted resources for listeners seeking to support legal, housing, and food assistance efforts in the Minnesota. Find a cause to support at https://www.standwithminnesota.com

Mentioned Loni Anderson (1995), My Life in High Heels https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1054028.My_Life_in_High_Heels 10.12

Themes Covered

• Minnesota's television and news legacy
• Women in broadcast journalism and acting
• Comfort TV and cultural resilience
• Civic responsibility and constitutional principles
• Storytelling during periods of social unrest

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Monthly Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

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LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-bemis-abrams-5046573/

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Video Editing - https://nivialopez.com/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

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TV herstorian Cynthia Bemis Abrams spotlights Regina Jones, a pioneering media entrepreneur who made history as the first Black woman to publish nationally with a focus on soul music.

In this episode, Cynthia is joined by Alissa Shapiro, executive producer of Who in the Hell is Regina Jones?, a documentary that explores Jones' impact and SOUL Newspaper, and premieres on Weigel Broadcasting's Dabl TV, Story TV, and Start TV in February 2026 for Black History Month.

Together, they discuss:

• The founding and cultural legacy of SOUL Newspaper
• How Jones utilized print media to amplify Black voices in music
• Jones' role as a trailblazer in Black women's media history.
• Why SOUL Newspaper deserves a place in American pop culture canon;
• The significance of airing this acclaimed documentary on cable today.

Shapiro also shares behind-the-scenes insights into producing the documentary, which blends decades of preservation work, journalism, and archival research into a powerful portrait of Jones' life and survival.

References: SOUL Newspaper https://www.soulpublications.co/

Who the Hell is Regina Jones? https://whoisreginafilm.com/

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Monthly Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

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PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Video Editing - https://nivialopez.com/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

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Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams welcomes Mary Owen, daughter of Golden Age film and TV icon Donna Reed, to explore how The Donna Reed Show (1958–1966) pushed boundaries, challenged norms, and influenced portrayals of motherhood and feminism in sitcoms.

Reed's character, Donna Stone, was the first TV mom to lead a show focused on everyday family life — earning her a Golden Globe and backlash from Second Wave Feminists. Mary shares first-hand stories about growing up on set, preserving her mother's legacy, and how progressive ideas, like casting a Black neighbor boy, were shut down by the network. Cynthia and Mary also compare The Donna Reed Show's storytelling to that of I Love Lucy, Hazel, and Betty White's Life with Elizabeth. This conversation reframes Reed's influence on pop culture, sitcom structure, and feminism, and challenges what we think we know about "trad wives."

Learn more about all things Donna Reed, including her fan base and loyal Iowa community at https://www.donnareed.org

Episode Life Lessons:

• Progress often happens in "small steps," even when it isn't widely recognized in the moment.
• Feminist impact can emerge from unexpected or overlooked places.
• Representation battles have long histories, often hidden behind network decisions.

NoteSeasons 1–5 of The Donna Reed Show are widely available on streaming and DVD. Seasons 6 & 7 are not available due to rights held by a different entity (not the Owen family).

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Monthly Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

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PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Video Editing - https://nivialopez.com/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

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Award-winning showrunner Beth Sullivan joins host Cynthia Bemis Abrams for a deep dive into the creation and legacy of Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman and The Trials of Rosie O'Neill. Sullivan, a UCLA graduate and screenwriting professor, shares how she built empowering female characters, assembled diverse ensembles, and balanced historical realism with emotional storytelling.

The conversation also features actor Jonelle Allen, known for portraying Grace on Dr. Quinn, who reflects on her experience working with Sullivan and the show's intentional representation of race, gender, and frontier life.

🎧 Highlights include: The historical importance of portraying a woman doctor in the 1800s Writing women-led legal drama with The Trials of Rosie O'Neill Sullivan's unique lens on plot development and moral storytelling Behind-the-scenes stories from Dr. Quinn's powerful episodes: • 2.20 The First Circle • 4.20 An Eye for an Eye

Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman podcasts:

Dr. Quinn Cast https://drquinncast.com/

The Town Council Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-town-council-dr-quinn-medicine-woman-podcast/id984365107

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Monthly Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-bemis-abrams-5046573/

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Video Editing - https://nivialopez.com/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

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TV herstorian Cynthia Bemis Abrams reports back from a star-studded week in Los Angeles, where she met creators, paid tribute to icons, and reflected on the past, present, and future of women in Hollywood.

In this personal recap, Cynthia shares highlights from her California adventure, including:

• Her visit to the Writers Guild of America West (WGAW) archives.
• Paying respects at the Forever Hollywood Cemetery.
• Coffee with TV writing legend Georgia Jeffries.
• Recording a conversation about the creative process with writer and showrunner Beth Sullivan (TV's Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman 1993-1998); and
• Interviewing actor and singer Stepfanie Kramer (TV's Hunter 1984-1991).

This travelogue-style episode brings Cynthia's passion for television, feminism, and storytelling to life—one postcard at a time.

Enjoy last month's episode with Stepfanie Kramer https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/fa19d380-cfdf-4b17-9c43-75d8ee28a070.mp3

Enjoy our July episode with Georgia Jeffries https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/41c28c3c-717d-4328-90a8-f88247663faa.mp3

WGA Foundation https://www.wgfoundation.org/

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Monthly Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

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LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-bemis-abrams-5046573/

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Video Editing - https://nivialopez.com/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

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Cynthia Bemis Abrams sits down with actor and singer Stepfanie Kramer at the Paley Center for Media to revisit her trailblazing role as Sgt. Dee Dee McCall on Hunter (1984–1991). Together, they unpack: * The cultural legacy of Hunter and its Reagan-era action show peers * Kramer's reflections on fame, aging in Hollywood, and leaving the series * Her influence as a feminist TV figure and enduring global fan base * Behind-the-scenes production realities * Life after Hunter: music, stage, and staying connected to fans * Honey West, Police Woman, Cagney & Lacey and Hunter - how they reveal progress

Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering Kramer’s work anew, this episode explores the power of representation, resilience, and navigating fame as a woman in a male-dominated genre. CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

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Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams connects the dots between TV, feminism, and workplace protections in this powerful episode inspired by her law review article, co-authored with legal scholar Mary Trevor. Their work explores how decades of television shaped public understanding of sexual harassment, particularly the form known as quid pro quo. From prime-time depictions to real-life milestones like Anita Hill’s Senate testimony, Cynthia walks us through the TV, cultural and legal shifts that defined the transition from Second to Third Wave Feminist movement. The law review article— Power Plays: Women and Progressive Television Battle Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment in the 20th Century —was published in 2025 by the Howard University Human and Civil Rights Law Review. 🔗 Request the article PDF or connect with Cynthia:

• Newsletter: https://tvherstory.com
• Podcast Archive: https://tvherstory.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/
• Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social
• Website: https://cynthiabemisabrams.com
• Email: cynthia@cynthiabemisabrams.com

🔗 Related ATH Episodes * 2.7 – I Believe Anita Hill: The 1991 Hearings and Their Legacy https://traffic.libsyn.com/advancedtvherstory/I_Believe_Anita_Hill.mp3 * 4.14 – How “That Girl” Tackled Sexual Harassment in the 1960s https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/that-girl-and-sexual-harassment * 4.20 – Sports Night: More Relevant Than Ever https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/sports-night-more-relevant-than-ever * 5.15 – I Still Believe Anita Hill: The Impact of 1991 Senate Hearings https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/i-still-believe-anita-hill-refresh-of-16-ep * YouTube: Law Review Article Explained https://youtu.be/RbrQSxh_MI4?si=II0oBh12dlveSDzO

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Celebrate 11 years of Advanced TV Herstory with host Cynthia Bemis Abrams and special guest Elsie Escobar, Podcast Hall of Famer and co-founder of She Podcasts. This milestone conversation dives into the evolution of independent podcasting, technological innovations, and the power of diverse voices in audio storytelling.

In this episode: * Elsie’s trailblazing journey as a Latina podcasting leader * Key shifts in podcast technology, audience experience, and distribution * How women-led podcasts are shaping the industry * Lessons from Elsie’s advocacy for creators in non-English-speaking communities * The TV shows that influenced Elsie’s creative voice from El Salvador to California

Whether you’re a podcaster, content creator, or simply curious about the podcast revolution, this episode highlights the grit, innovation, and community-building that define 11 years of success. Elsie Escobar Page: https://elsieescobar.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theelsieescobar/

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Award-winning writer and professor Georgia Jeffries joins Cynthia Bemis Abrams to reflect on her pioneering work in television and screenwriting. From her early magazine articles to Emmy-winning work on Cagney & Lacey, China Beach and Sisters, Jeffries reveals how she broke into Hollywood’s writers' rooms and built a career defined by dramatic integrity and feminist storytelling. In this rich conversation, Georgia discusses: * Her transition from journalism to writing TV scripts on spec * Championing women writers through her work with the Writers Guild * Launching USC’s first undergrad screenwriting thesis program * How writing fiction compares to television * Her 2024 novel The Younger Girl, based on real events in Illinois

Referenced episodes with Cagney & Lacey and Lou Grant writer April Smith are linked in the resources. Resources: * Georgia Jeffries’ website: https://georgiajeffries.com/ * TV Writer April Smith on Lou Grant & Storytelling https://traffic.libsyn.com/advancedtvherstory/April_Smith_mixdown.mp3 * Mrs. America & TV’s Dimensional Feminismhttps://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/mrs-america-3-dimensional-storytelling

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

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Why do cozy mysteries still dominate the mystery genre, decades after their prime? Cynthia Bemis Abrams welcomes Prof. Bridget Kies of Oakland University for an insightful conversation exploring the long-running impact of Murder, She Wrote (1984–1996) and the enduring appeal of the cozy crime format. Explore: * Angela Lansbury’s legacy as the iconic Jessica Fletcher * How Murder, She Wrote exemplifies the cozy mystery genre across TV, books, and beyond * The academic relevance of the Wayne State University Press’s TV Milestone Series * Why female-driven mysteries and older women protagonists remain culturally powerful * Murder, She Wrote’s influence on Hallmark mysteries, true crime fandom, and TikTok sleuths

With real-life insights from a TV scholar, fan anecdotes, and an acknowledgment of the series' reboot potential, this episode offers a smart and nostalgic look at why Murder, She Wrote still matters. Quote from the Episode: “Murder, She Wrote was popular at a really important time in TV history, when everything about TV was changing. It started before those changes and ended in the middle of them. It tells us so much about TV’s transitions from the early ‘80s to the mid-‘90s. Referenced ATH Episode: 8.5 – In Memoriam: Angela Lansbury’s Legacy on Stage & Screen https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/in-memoriam-angela-lansbury-msw Resources: * Kies, Bridget (2023). Murder, She Wrote (TV Milestone Series), Wayne State University Press https://wsupress.wayne.edu/9780814350119/ * https://www.kelleyhousemuseum.org/events/murder-she-wrote-fanfest/

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From Lucille Ball to Tina Fey, from Joan Rivers to Margaret Cho, women have been rewriting the rules of comedy for decades — and they're not done yet. Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams is joined by Lynn Harris, founder of Gold Comedy, to explore the legacy and future of funny women on TV. Together, they dissect the comedic influence of legends like Mary Tyler Moore, Moms Mabley, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus — and discuss why shows like SNL still present challenges for women today. With a nod to streaming, social media, and evolving industry gatekeepers, this episode dives into how women and non-binary creatives are shaping the next chapter of television comedy.

Background & Mentions

Gold Comedy – https://goldcomedy.com/

1.21 – Lucille Ball’s Humility & Pride https://traffic.libsyn.com/advancedtvherstory/Lucille_Balls_Humility__Pride.mp3 6.15 – Presenting Margaret Cho https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/presenting-margaret-cho 11.1 – SNL’s Gilda Radner: A Life Celebrated in Film https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/snls-gilda-radner-a-life-celebrated-in-film Book recommendations: Joan Rivers (1986) Enter Talking and Carol Burnett (2011) This Time Together Learn more about Moms Mabley https://nmaahc.si.edu/moms-mabley TV series Ellen (1994-98) S.4, e 22 The Puppy Episode https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xnty3f WI Public Radio interview with Hacks creators https://www.wpr.org/culture/hacks-co-creators-on-their-emmy-winning-comedy-show

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Look no further than TV news anchor Connie Chung’s groundbreaking career for the textbook definition of representation. Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams explores Chung’s impact as a trailblazing Chinese-American journalist through the lens of her 2024 memoir, Connie, A Memoir. This episode revisits Chung’s rise through national television journalism, her lasting legacy, and her influence on American culture—including the surprise moment during her 2024 appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show, where young women named Connie honored her inspiration. Cynthia also reflects on Chung’s open letter in The Washington Post, written in support of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford during the Kavanaugh hearings, and how Chung’s career helped define resilience in the face of systemic barriers. Episode Quote: “There’s no better definition of representation than the career of Connie Chung.” Resources or Mentions: Top of the Morning: Inside the Cutthroat World of Morning TV (2014) by Brian Stelter Connie: A Memoir https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/connie-chung/connie/9781668639528/ Past Advanced TV Herstory eps about Connie Chung The Women Who Reported Watergate https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/women-who-reported-watergate On-Air Power of Curry & Pauley https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/on-air-power-of-curry-pauley The Kelly Clarkson Show Nov. 2024 https://youtu.be/9j97G7bXwCw?si=oTiCc-sXcauJUkpi Chung's open letter in The Washington Post as reported in Time Magazine https://time.com/5414736/connie-chung-letter/

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Cynthia Bemis Abrams sits down with Oscar-nominated documentary director Julie Cohen to explore her career in network TV journalism and filmmaking. The conversation covers Cohen’s path to power as a storyteller, highlighting her work on films about Pauli Murray, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Julia Child. Cohen shares insights into her acclaimed projects, including: * RBG (2018), the documentary about Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, which gained widespread recognition. * My Name is Pauli Murray (2021), the film on the groundbreaking but lesser-known civil rights activist and attorney. * Every Body (2023), a documentary about the intersex rights movement and personal narratives.

The episode also highlights Julia Child’s pioneering influence on television and women’s roles in professional kitchens. Cohen discusses Child’s legacy as a feminist figure and the impact of her political activism, particularly regarding reproductive rights and HIV/AIDS awareness. Julie Cohen actively promotes her latest documentary, The Path Forward (2024). The Power of Storytelling in Documentaries * Why she chose to spotlight Pauli Murray, RBG, and Julia Child * Challenges in structuring historical narratives into compelling film stories * Overcoming obstacles in starting and funding documentary projects

Julia Child’s Television Legacy * How Julia Child revolutionized TV cooking shows * The impact of her work on modern food media figures like Martha Stewart, Ina Garten, and Rachael Ray * Her hidden activism and why her political legacy is often overlooked * The feminist undertones in Child’s career and influence on women in professional kitchens

Behind the Scenes of Every Body (2023) * How Cohen approached the intersex rights movement in her documentary * Personal stories shared in the film and their broader significance

Julie Cohen's Films: * Julia (2021): https://imagine-entertainment.com/documentary/julia/ * The Path Forward (2024): https://deadline.com/video/the-path-forward-trailer-julie-cohen-mo-husseini-documentary/ * My Name is Pauli Murray (2021): https://www.theguardian.com/film/2021/sep/15/my-name-is-pauli-murray-review-the-legacy-of-a-fearless-campaigner * RBG (2018): https://www.magpictures.com/rbg/ * Every Body (2023): https://www.focusfeatures.com/every-body

To book a screening of A Path Forward : https://grasshopperfilm.com/(grasshopperfilm.com) . By Spring 2025, it will be available on paid streaming channels, including Apple+.

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In this episode of Advanced TV Herstory, host Cynthia Bemis Abrams is joined by author Angela Beauchamp to explore how Eleanor Roosevelt, a trailblazing communicator, shaped early public affairs programming. They discuss Roosevelt's prolific media presence, from her “My Day” newspaper column and radio broadcasts to her groundbreaking television appearances. The conversation highlights how Roosevelt’s political influence extended beyond her time as First Lady, using media to engage the public and advocate for change. Angela Beauchamp shares insights from her book Eleanor Roosevelt on Screen: The First Lady's Appearances in Film and Television, 1932-1962, detailing the evolution of Roosevelt’s on-screen presence and her pioneering role as a media influencer. Podcast Episode Plot Summary Eleanor Roosevelt’s impact on early television was groundbreaking. Stemming from Roosevelt's popular writings and radio presence, she redefined how public figures connected with audiences. Cynthia and Angela discuss Roosevelt’s pioneering of television public affairs programming as host of shows with major guests, and remaining a worldwide cultural icon following World War II . Key topics include: * Roosevelt’s transition from radio to television and the significance of her “My Day” column * Television appearances on Meet the Press, Prospects of Mankind, and Today with Mrs. Roosevelt * Her candid views on political figures like JFK and Richard Nixon and how those views influenced public discourse * Behind-the-scenes details from her 1950s public affairs shows, from set designs to guest curation

This episode celebrates Roosevelt's contributions to television and her legacy as a woman who reshaped political and cultural dialogue through media. Episode Life Lessons: * Leadership through visibility: Eleanor Roosevelt used media as a tool for public service and advocacy. * Persistence breaks barriers: Roosevelt’s transition from radio to television set a standard for women in public discourse. * Cultural legacy matters: Media coverage can preserve and extend a public figure’s influence across generations.

Episode Resources Referenced Shows and Networks: * Meet the Press * Prospects of Mankind (1959–1962) * Mrs. Roosevelt Meets the Public (1950–1951) * Today with Mrs. Roosevelt (1950)

Related Episodes: * FLOTUS on TV: Roosevelt & Ford (1.25) https://traffic.libsyn.com/advancedtvherstory/FLOTUSes_on_TV_-_Roosevelt_Ford.mp3

Resources: * Media History Project https://mediahistoryproject.org/ * Eleanor Roosevelt on Screen: The First Lady's Appearances in Film and Television, 1932–1962 by Angela Beauchamp

https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/eleanor-roosevelt-on-screen/

• Pastor Hall https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pastor_Hall
• Blanche Wiesen Cook (ER biographer) https://blanchewcook.com/
• Eleanor Roosevelt Paper's Project at George Washington University https://erpapers.columbian.gwu.edu/

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Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams and filmmaker Lisa D'Apolito pick up the conversation about documentaries, this time about Gilda Radner and the 2018 film, Love, Gilda. In fall 2024, Lisa was a guest along with Mallory Lewis to discuss the documentary, Shari and Lamb Chop.

• Lisa's journey from acting to filmmaking - shorts and feature length.
• Telling the life stories of women whose accomplishments and impact have been overlooked.
• Gilda's diaries about her long quest for a diagnosis.
• Comedians interviewed for the film like Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolf, Bill Hader and Melissa McCarthy expressed awe and sanctity to read Gilda's journals and writings.
• Lisa D'Apolito building trust with Gilda's friends and family to obtain access to preserved tapes and documents.
• Archiving video tape from personal collections.
• Lisa's interview with Gilda's widower, Gene Wilder and how the time with him was spent.
• The film's premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival (NYC) introduction by Tina Fey. https://youtu.be/1B44XRFotuo?si=JjYYdMIzU5iG0QHz

DVD: Love, Gilda https://www.target.com/p/love-gilda-dvd-2018/-/A-90690431 Book: It's Always Something, by Gilda Radner (1989) https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Its-Always-Something/Gilda-Radner/9781439148860 Advanced TV Herstory 2024 episode on film, Shari and Lamb Chop

https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/shari-lewis-reinventions-a-documentary-on-legacy-and-talent

Guest and Host Information

• Newsletter: https://tvherstory.com/
• Website: https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/
• Podcast Archive: https://tvherstory.com/
• Instagram: @advancedtvherstory
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory
• Bluesky Social: https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

Production Credits: * Video Production: https://nivialopez.com/ * Audio Editing: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ * Music: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

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Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams takes you to The Paley Center for Media in New York City, exploring its role in preserving television history and hosting key industry events like PaleyFest. Cynthia dives into The Paley Archive during her visit, her top destination. She recounts her observations while watching the iconic 1973 broadcast of Billie Jean King versus Bobby Riggs in the historic "Battle of the Sexes." Listen in as Cynthia unpacks the significance of the archive, her first searches in the database, and her candid reactions to Howard Cosell's commentary alongside Rosie Casals and Gene Scott. Episode Life Lessons * Age, training, and mental resilience were crucial to Billie Jean King’s performance. * The significance of preserving history for future generations to learn and reflect. * How cultural artifacts like sports broadcasts shape societal conversations on gender and equality.

Episode Resources * Battle of the Sexes: King vs. Riggs 1973 (1.6) - https://traffic.libsyn.com/advancedtvherstory/Battle_of_the_Sexes_092217.mp3 * TV's Smiling Feminist: Dinah Shore - https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/tvs-smiling-feminist-dinah-shore * The Paley Center for Media Website - https://www.paleycenter.org/ * YouTube upload of 1973 broadcast https://youtu.be/R9C5XNREzNg?si=4O9Nv5K8ynL30ur0

Cynthia Bemis Abrams and Advanced TV Herstory

ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com

Email - advancedtvherstory@gmail.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

Production

Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/

Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

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Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams speaks with Karly Beaumont, creator of Core Temp Arts and contributor to TV Movie Mistress, about the comforting power of television. As a Dominican native and lifelong creative, Karly shares her journey as a podcaster and media critic, offering insights into how shows like Bluey, You're the Worst, and UnREAL are her emotional touchstones during challenging times. Cynthia and Karly probe ways to navigate this time of uncertainty, including listening to understand and recognizing signs of fear. Damian Ali of TalkTeaV contributes a timely message about inclusion and storytelling in today’s TV landscape.

• TalkTeaV by Damian Ali https://www.talkteav.com/
• Core Temp Arts Network's Talking Shondaland podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-shondaland/id918881317
• TV Movie Mistress Podcast https://tvmoviemistress.wordpress.com/

Episode Life Lessons: * Listening to understand, not just to reply. * The importance of representation and inclusivity in media. * How comfort TV offers healing during times of crisis.

Guest & Host Information: * Karly Beaumont: Instagram @karlyvision | Bluesky @karlybeaumont.bsky.social * Damian Ali: Visit TalkTeaV

• ATVH Newsletter: tvherstory.com
• Website: cynthiabemisabrams.com
• Podcast Archive: tvherstory.com
• Instagram: @advancedtvherstory
• YouTube: Advanced TV Herstory Channel
• Facebook: Media.Cynthia
• Bluesky Social: Cynthia Bemis Abrams

Production Credits: * Video Production: Nivia Lopez * Audio Editing: Marilou Marosz * Music: Jahzzar - Free Music Archive

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In this episode of Advanced TV Herstory, host Cynthia Bemis Abrams discusses the compelling documentary Shari and Lambchop with Mallory Lewis and director Lisa D’Apolito (Love, Gilda). The film chronicles Shari Lewis' life and her constant reinvention across a variety of roles—TV show host, magician, dancer, singer, actress, author, and even symphony conductor. Featuring archival footage and interviews, this documentary uncovers the multifaceted talent of Shari Lewis, including her work as a feminist, philosopher, and visionary in children’s television. Sesame Street’s Megan Piphus Peace provides a generational perspective on Shari Lewis’ enduring influence and creative genius.

RELEVANT EPISODES

Kids' TV Pioneers Shari Lewis and Lamb Chop featuring Mallory Lewis

https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/kids-tv-pioneers-shari-lewis-and-lambchop-featuring-mallory-lewis

Shari Lewis & Lamb Chop's Impact on Kids TV

https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/shari-lewis-lamb-chops-impact-on-kids-tv

THE DOCUMENTARY

Website - https://www.shariandlambchopdoc.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/shariandlambchopfilm/

MALLORY, LAMB CHOP & LISA

Mallory Lewis and Lamb Chop - https://mallorylewisandlambchop.com/

Lamb Chop on TikTok - @yourfavlambchop

Lisa D’Apolito IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0200854/

Lisa’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-d-apolito-2a161920/

MENTIONS

David Copperfield - https://www.davidcopperfield.com/html/

Megan Piphus Peace - https://www.meganpiphus.com/

Darci Lynne Farmer - https://www.darcilynne.com/

Center for Puppetry Arts - https://puppet.org/

CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS AND ATVH

ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com

Email - advancedtvherstory@gmail.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory

X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

PRODUCTION

Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/

Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

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In the last 10-20 years, attitudes toward LGBTQ+ people in America have shifted due to more positive visibility and evolving cultural norms. Cynthia takes a look at two moments from 1970s television that revealed glimpses of LGBTQ+ allyship—a talk show moment and a 1974 episode of Police Woman.

In 1970, June Lockhart appeared on The Virginia Graham Show and stopped the hostess in her tracks, pushing back on stereotypes and tropes common for the time. And the story of how a 54-year-old clip is available for viewing is its own testament to advocacy. LGBTQ+ scholar and media documentarian Steven Capsuto's book, Alternate Channels, helped Cynthia connect the June Lockhart dot to an episode of Police Woman.

Capsuto's book is an essential work for every media, gender, and social justice scholar. He traces television and even radio's early depiction of mostly gay characters and the absence of lesbians. His book also details the LGBTQ+ community's organization and support from straight allies that fought against distorted and ugly depictions of gay and lesbian characters in television and film for more than 75 years.

The overall trend in American society has been toward greater understanding and support for LGBTQ+ people and this is, to a significant degree, the result of advocates and allies pushing for more positive and diverse characterizations in popular culture. Television largely ignored lesbians until the 1970s and even then, the characters were bitter, violent, and unstable. With just a few sentences, June Lockhart, in real life, and Angie Dickinson, as Sgt. Pepper Anderson, showed viewers the power of LGBTQ+ allyship.

STEVEN CAPSUTO

Website - http://alternatechannels.net/

Alternate Channels, 20th Anniversary Revised Edition (2020) by Steven Capsuto http://alternatechannels.net/book/

MENTIONS

June Lockhart, Virginia Graham, Angie Dickinson, Rev. Troy Perry, Art Metrano, Donna Mills, Lois Nettleton, Randy Wicker, Judy Garland, Meet Me in St. Louis, Lassie, Lost in Space, Petticoat Junction, General Hospital, Quincy M.E., Police Woman, The Bold Ones, Medical Center, Charlie’s Angels, Cagney & Lacey, The Kinsey Report, Stonewall, HIV/AIDS, Metropolitan Community Church

CLIPS

The Virginia Graham Show, with June Lockhart and Rev. Troy Perry (1970) https://youtu.be/Xm2q-F6FdoY?si=35Z6kF8pN4rQotjd

Police Woman, Flowers of Evil, S1E8 (1974) https://youtu.be/o6oBmnhsblA?si=U-_5nIvhYSQyLLPo

CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS AND ATVH

ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com

Email - advancedtvherstory@gmail.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory

X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

PRODUCTION

Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/

Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

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I love to talk TV and I really enjoy every exchange with Susan and Sharon, otherwise known as the 80s TV Ladies. When their podcast, 80s TV Ladies, launched, they invited me to be a guest. It was a blast and over the last two years, the two podcasts have furthered a shared exploration of how women have been represented on television and the impact that representation has had on society as a whole and females, of all ages, in particular. Like Advanced TV Herstory, their show features interviews and analyzes the work of women both in front of and behind the camera.

Our podcasts aim to help listeners understand how our culture shapes the television shows we watch and, in turn, how those shows shape our culture. Listen in on this engaging and informative look behind the scenes as we discuss the motivations, joys, and challenges of creating podcasts that highlight the contributions of women in television.

80s TV LADIES

Contacts

Website – 80s TV Ladies - https://www.80stvladies.com/

Website – 134 West - https://134west.biz/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/80sTVLadies/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/80stvladies/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@80stvladies

Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/80sTVLadies

Awards

2024 Women in Podcasting, Nominee in Entertainment – VOTE at https://womeninpodcasting.net/80s-tv-ladies/

2024 Webby Award – Best Indie Podcast

2023 People’s Choice Podcast Awards - Best Art, Best TV & Film, Best Female Hosted

MENTIONS

Podcast Episodes

80s TV Ladies (24 May 2023) – Advanced TV Herstory w/ Cynthia Bemis Abrams, Part One - https://www.80stvladies.com/episode/episode-201-welcome-to-season-2-advanced-tv-herstory-w-cynthia-bemis-abram-part-1

80s TV Ladies (31 May 2023) – Advanced TV Herstory w/ Cynthia Bemis Abrams, Part Two - https://www.80stvladies.com/episode/episode-202-advanced-tv-herstory-aw-cynthia-bemis-abrams-part-two

Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus (11 Apr 2023) – Jane Fonda on Female Friendships - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jane-fonda-on-female-friendships/id1678559416?i=1000608248297

Shows

Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Cagney and Lacey, China Beach, Designing Women, Extraordinary Attorney Woo, Grey’s Anatomy, Lou Grant, My So-Called Life, Murphy Brown, Remington Steele, and Scarecrow and Mrs. King

People

Annie Potts, Barney Rosenzweig, Diane English, Eilish Zebrasky, Eugenie Ross-Leming, Geena Davis, Jean Smart, Juanita Bartlett, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Linda Bloodworth-Thomason, Melissa Roth, Neema Barnette, Sergio Perez, Sharon Gless, Shonda Rhimes, Stephanie Zimbalist, and Tyne Daly

Books

Backlash: The Undeclared War Against American Women by Susan Faludi - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Backlash:_The_Undeclared_War_Against_American_Women

Lou Grant: The Making of TV’s Top Newspaper Drama by Douglass K. Daniel – https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/288376.Douglass_K_Daniel

CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS AND ATVH

ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com

Email - advancedtvherstory@gmail.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory

X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

PRODUCTION

Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/

Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

View Details

Welcome to our annual anniversary episode where I share thoughts on the podcast's evolution —improvements, opportunities, and what’s in store for the future. With this look back at the podcast highlights and TV moments that have taught us and inspired us, I also recommit to our mission: Connecting the dots of feminism & TV and American politics & culture.

Can you believe we’re heading into our 10th year?! When I started the podcast in 2015, I wasn’t sure where Advanced TV Herstory would go. But it's important to reflect on one's work, solicit and discuss feedback, and provide context for viewing the cultural mirror that defines American television. In today’s environment, simply put, this work feels more vital than ever.

About that feedback. How are we doing? What can we do better? What topics are of particular interest to you? Please connect at any of the resources listed below. Better yet, subscribe to the Advanced TV Herstory newsletter for special content and a more personalized space to explore and exchange. Your information is NEVER shared and, like the podcast, our newsletter is completely ad free.

As always, thank you for listening and being part of the Advanced TV Herstory community. Cheers to another year!

CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS AND ATVH

ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com

Email - advancedtvherstory@gmail.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory

X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

PRODUCTION

Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/

Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

View Details

Della Reese (1931-2017) was a singer, talk show host, actor, ordained minister, and much more. Her career, which spanned seven decades, was marked by faith, resilience, and her ability to break barriers in predominantly white and male-dominated industries.

In 1969, Ms. Reese made history as the first black woman to host her own talk show. Almost more variety show than talk show, every episode offered an entertaining mix of sketch comedy, music, and interviews.

Before her own talk show, Ms. Reese established herself as a prominent television personality by appearing and performing on shows led by Merv Griffin, Ed Sullivan, Phil Donahue, and Johnny Carson. In fact, she was chosen as the first black woman to sub for Johnny Carson as host of the Tonight Show.

But aside from her earlier accomplishments, Ms. Reese is perhaps best known to today’s audiences for her popular television series, “Touched by an Angel,” where she appeared with Roma Downey, John Dye, Valerie Bertinelli, and a guest cast that featured many of the biggest names in television and film.

In her 1997 memoir, “Angels Along the Way: My Life with Help from Above,” Ms. Reese reflects on the challenges she faced and overcame throughout her life, including racism and financial exploitation, while maintaining a steadfast commitment to helping others. It’s an inspirational look at a remarkable life.

RESOURCES

Touched by an Angel https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0108968/

Angels Along the Way: My Life with Help from Above https://www.betterworldbooks.com/product/detail/angels-along-the-way-my-life-with-help-from-above-9780399143427

Television Academy Foundation – Foundation Interviews: Della Reese on Having a Brain Aneurysm https://youtu.be/kw0tsFyZO5w?si=Qtqsw WSyHyjrh6H7

CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS AND ATVH

ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory

X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

PRODUCTION

Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/

Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

View Details

This Mother's Day we celebrate the women who raise us, nurture and help us find our inner strength and outer voice. Typically, they are our mothers or stepmothers—but they also can be foster moms, grandparents, neighbors, dance teachers—any woman who holds a mirror up to our potential. They often enter our lives without warning and change us forever—though sometimes it takes years for us to realize it.

These are my thoughts on Victoria Rowell’s compelling 2007 memoir, “The Women Who Raised Me.” Ms. Rowell spent her youth in the foster care system. But with the help of many dedicated and caring women, she became an accomplished dancer and successful actor. Her memoir is a tribute to the women who raised her, and she describes them in loving and vivid detail.

“I was never meant to be raised by one mother, but by many.” -Victoria Rowell

Ms. Rowell is a two-time Emmy Award nominee and has received 11 NAACP Image Awards. She is perhaps best known for her 20+ years on “The Young and the Restless” and eight seasons on “Diagnosis: Murder.” Rowell continues to act (look for “Summer Camp” in theaters May 31, 2024) and write, direct, and produce. Additionally, she has been recognized for her work with foster children and advocacy for education, the arts, and mental health awareness, support, and treatment.

As always, thank you for listening to Advanced TV Herstory. And, as we celebrate Mother’s Day and National Foster Care Month, please show your gratitude to the women in your life. You know who they are.

RESOURCES

The Women Who Raised Me: A Memoir by Victoria Rowell https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-women-who-raised-me-victoria-rowell/1100571768

Victoria Rowell: Featured Speaker for the Paul & Louise Miller Lecture Series https://youtu.be/A2CrcdUXRv8?si=Cow9hEBhED1jGMLx

National Foster Care Month https://www.childwelfare.gov/fostercaremonth/

Summer Camp (in theaters 31 May 2024) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26928684/?ref_=nm_flmg_unrel_1_act

CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS AND ATVH

ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory

X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

PRODUCTION

Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/

Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

View Details

On location at the Pop Culture Association (PCA) National Conference in Chicago, I met with Sherry Ginn, PhD, the current PCA president. Dr. Ginn is an impressive pop culture and science fiction scholar and I’m grateful that we were able to sit down and talk about our mutual interests in television and the impact of women in society.

Our discussion includes the evolution of science fiction in popular culture, the legacy of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, the problem with Dollhouse, female representation and role models, feminism, diversity, inclusion, norm breaking, and the special challenges created by male writers and showrunners in science fiction.

As a tireless editor and author, Dr. Ginn combines her love of sci-fi with her expertise in neuroscience research and psychology. Her written work presents thoughtful analyses on a range of previously under-explored topics such as women in science fiction television and sex in science fiction. Dr. Ginn has written or edited works featuring Doctor Who, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Farscape, Fringe, and Dollhouse, among others.

Check out the Pop Culture Association’s website below to learn more about the benefits of membership.

Thanks for listening!

CONTACT DR. GINN and the POP CULTURE ASSOCIATION*

Website - https://pcaaca.org/

e-mail - sherry@pcaaca.org

*formerly the Pop Culture Association / American Culture Association

SELECT WRITTEN WORKS

Our Space, Our Place: Women in the Worlds of Science Fiction Television by Sherry Ginn, PhD - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2085421.Our_Space_Our_Place

Joss Whedon's Dollhouse: Confounding Purpose, Confusing Identity by Sherry Ginn, PhD - https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/joss-whedons-dollhouse-sherry-ginn/1118329342

Power and Control in the Television Worlds of Joss Whedon by Sherry Ginn, PhD - https://www.acappellabooks.com/pages/books/228952/sherry-ginn/power-and-control-in-the-television-worlds-of-joss-whedon

Being a Girl with The Doctor: Essays in the Feminine in Doctor Who (Edited by Gillian I. Leitch and Sherry Ginn) - https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/being-a-girl-with-the-doctor/

To Boldly Stay: Essays on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (Edited by Sherry Ginn and Michael G. Cornelius) - https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/to-boldly-stay/

The Sex is Out of This World: Essays on the Carnal Side of Science Fiction (Edited by Sherry Ginn and Michael G. Cornelius) - https://www.abebooks.com/9780786466856/Sex-Out-World-Essays-Carnal-0786466855/plp

CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory

X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

PRODUCTION

Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

View Details

We continue to celebrate the female voices that have provided a foundation for cultural advancement and modern discourse by featuring a rare TV talk show appearance by two-time Academy Award winner Vivien Leigh.

The year was 1958. The show was “Small World,” hosted by American broadcast journalist Edward R. Murrow. Appearing alongside Ms. Leigh are motion picture executive Samuel Goldwyn and British writer and entertainment critic Kenneth Tynan.

Ms. Leigh, best known for her work as Scarlett O’Hara in “Gone with the Wind” and Blanche DuBois in “A Streetcar Named Desire,” died in 1967 at the age of 53, but her legacy remains profound. And, while some of the opinions in this broadcast would be considered outdated now, you’ll hear that Ms. Leigh was not afraid to mix it up with some of the most strident male voices of her day.

As always, thank you for listening. For the video version of this episode, visit @advancedtvherstory on YouTube.

RESOURCES

Small World, Part 1 https://youtu.be/4c6kR9ORqUc?si=sXmP3bg5Cqzs63Zu

Small World, Part 2 https://youtu.be/P5roaRH9rY0?si=gfMmZhJTtrqdY85l

Small World, Part 3 https://youtu.be/tG0x68lPzso?si=TMitHcgm45BVl3Pf

Taylor Mayes - https://www.youtube.com/@Taylormayes

CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS AND ATVH

ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory

X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

PRODUCTION

Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/

Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

View Details

Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams welcomes Yvonne Perry to Advanced TV Herstory. Yvonne is an award-winning actor, drama teacher, director, and intimacy coordinator. In addition to her work in film and primetime television, she originated the role of Rosanna Cabot on "As the World Turns." Yvonne’s experience in daytime TV, with its groundbreaking storylines and thoughtful intimacy handling, has informed her approach to work today.

Cynthia and Yvonne reflect on the wins in the 2023 SAG-AFTRA contract, including new standards and protocols for the use of intimacy coordinators. Yvonne discusses her experience working in this emerging field and the value of providing a respectful and collaborative environment for actors, directors, and crew members.

Yvonne also shares fun and informative stories from along her career path, including an important lesson she learned as Rosanna Cabot, her first kiss in front of the camera, the relationship between fight choreography and intimacy direction, what major league ballplayers think about daytime TV, and much more.

It’s a lively and interesting discussion from an insider’s point of view. Thank you for listening!

[February 6, 2024 - This episode has been edited to include Alicia Rodis' contribution to the field of intimacy direction and coordinating.]

YVONNE PERRY

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/YvonnePerryHulbert

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/yvonneperryh/

Website - https://www.yvonneperry.com/

RESOURCES and MENTIONS

Intimacy Directors & Coordinators - https://www.idcprofessionals.com/

Jessica Steinrock, PhD, Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intimacy_coordinator_

Jessica Steinrock, PhD, TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@intimacycoordinator?/

Alicia Rodis - https://www.idcprofessionals.com/bios/aliciarodis

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

Bluesky Social - @cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

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In this special episode, Cynthia Bemis Abrams is joined by guest co-host Ashley Pacini for the Parade of Accomplished Women 2023. Instead of a somber “in memoriam,” we’re bringing you a celebration of the talented, influential women who helped shape the television industry. In this second part of our tribute, we highlight the women of daytime, the often-overlooked creatives working behind the scenes, and—new this year—the women of reality shows.

It is especially difficult to preserve the legacy of lesser-known women in an ever-expanding industry, but their influence is no less important. That’s why we consider this a call to action. We lost these women over the past year, but we must not lose the memory of them or their contributions to television history.

Thank you for joining us as we honor the enduring spirit of women in television.

THE REEL WOMEN

Ashley Pacini on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleypacini/

Website - https://thereelwomen.com/

Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thereelwomen

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thereelwomen/?hl=en

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thereelwomen/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thereelwomen

AUDIO CLIPS and REFERENCES Clips have been edited for length.

Remembering Jacklyn Zeman (General Hospital) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLfhlDtk-x0

Ellen Holly on Being at the March on Washington in 1963 (Foundation Interviews) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Aige_YvQGU

Ellen Holly on her New York Times article “How Black Do You Have to Be?” (Foundation Interviews) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkEmOWaiWF4

How Black Do You Have to Be (NY Times, 1968) - https://www.nytimes.com/1968/09/15/archives/how-black-do-you-have-to-be-how-black-do-you-have-to-be.html

The Colors of Black (NY Times, 1968) - https://www.nytimes.com/1968/10/06/archives/the-colors-of-black.html

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

Bluesky Social - @cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

View Details

OUT in 2024 - "In Memoriam"

IN - Parade of Accomplished Women

This is the first of our two-part celebration of some of the talented, influential females we lost in 2023.

Guest co-host Ashley Pacini of The Reel Women joins host Cynthia Bemis Abrams for this discussion. The Reel Women interviews and profiles women in the industry to increase visibility and opportunity for the next generation of women who want to work in television, film, and media.

Cynthia and Ashley pay respects to the creatives who played pivotal roles in front of, and behind, the cameras. In addition to well-known names, they honor women who hustled for years as largely unheralded day players, others who stepped up to provide representation of the unseen, and several who risked their careers to speak truth to power.

While we can’t feature all the remarkable women who died in 2023, we believe it’s important to highlight the contributions and careers that might otherwise go unnoticed so that they are not lost to history.

Thank you for listening and be sure to tune in to the second half of Parade of Accomplished Women 2023.

THE REEL WOMEN

Ashley Pacini on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleypacini/

Website - https://thereelwomen.com/

Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thereelwomen

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thereelwomen/?hl=en

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thereelwomen/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thereelwomen

AUDIO CLIPS and REFERENCES

Sinead O’Connor - https://youtu.be/8LcmJErI8IQ

Inga Swenson - https://youtu.be/-4hjBu23hws

Cindy Williams - https://youtu.be/d-PlT-sHRTE

Behind the Velvet Rope Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@behindthevelvetrope

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

Bluesky Social - @cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

View Details

Welcome to the next episode in our special series on TV Talk Shows.

Big talk show moments, especially the controversial ones, provide snapshots that we can use to examine our politics and culture at a singular point in time. Some of the moments we discuss in this series may be unfamiliar to you or they may seem obscure or forgotten, but that’s the point. We’re here to preserve TV Herstory.

Today, when alternative facts are part of our daily life, it’s especially instructive to look back more than 40 years at a grudge match over Truth and Reputation that played out on The Dick Cavett Show in 1980 and beyond. The combatants were two opinionated, strong-willed women: playwright/author Lillian Hellman and novelist/critic Mary McCarthy.

Thank you for listening to Advanced TV Herstory. I encourage you to learn more about these women starting with the resources below.

RESOURCES FOR LILLIAN HELLMAN

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lillian_Hellman

Plays: The Little Foxes; The Children's Hour; Watch on the Rhein; Days to Come

Books and Memoirs: An Unfinished Woman: A Memoir; Pentimento; Scoundrel Time

About Lillian Hellman:

C-SPAN's American History TV episode on Lillian Hellman

Rollyson, Carl (1989) Lillian Hellman: Her Legend and Her Legacy

Kessler-Harris, Alice (2012) The Challenging Life and Times of Lillian Hellman

Gallagher, Dorothy (2014) Lillian Hellman: An Imperious Life

RESOURCES FOR MARY McCARTHY

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_McCarthy_(author)

Books & Memoirs: Memories of a Catholic Girlhood; The Stones of Florence; The Group; Cannibals and Missionaries

About Mary McCarthy:

Kiernan, Frances (2002) Seeing Mary Plain: A Life of Mary McCarthy

Brightman, Carol (1992) Writing Dangerously: Mary McCarthy and Her World

Gelderman, Carol (1988) Mary McCarthy: A Life

INLINE RESOURCES

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5OfKEjABGGY

Theatre Talk: Hellman v. McCarthy - CUNY TV

Guests: Dick Cavett, Roberta Maxwell, Marcia Rodd

Hosts: Michael Riedel, Susan Haskins

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstoryB

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

Bluesky Social - @cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

View Details

We know her as Meemaw, Mary Jo Shively, Emmie Sims, and the voice of Bo Peep. But Annie Potts is hooked on helping others—she’s very hands on—and she’s here to tell us about that part of her life. In doing so, she inspires us with her commitment and challenges us to “turn the car around.”

Annie’s charitable organization, The Heart Channels, provides direct support quickly and creatively to people at critical crossroads in their life. Its mission reflects what Annie witnessed growing up—that wherever there was a need, people opened their hearts and quietly stepped in to help however they could.

The Heart Channels also mirrors Annie’s belief that we are one human family, no matter where on the planet we are. By opening our eyes to the needs of others, we can respond lovingly and immediately—neighbor to neighbor and heart to heart.

I hope you’ll join us for this very special discussion. And please consider helping out. All donations to The Heart Channels—100%—are tax deductible and go directly to people in need.

FOLLOW AND DONATE TO THE HEART CHANNELS

The Heart Channels - https://www.theheartchannels.org/

On Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theheartchannels

On Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theheartchannels/

CONNECT WITH ANNIE POTTS

Cameo (all proceeds go to The Heart Channels) - https://www.cameo.com/anniepotts

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thisisanniepotts/?hl=en

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

View Details

Join host Cynthia Bemis Abrams as she launches a new limited series, TV Talk Shows, part of the Advanced TV Herstory podcast.

In this first episode, Cynthia delves into a study that reveals women are more prominently featured in unscripted television shows than in scripted ones—another example of the industry’s inclination to front women in projects that are less expensive to produce. She also touches on the recent strikes by SAG-AFTRA and the WGA, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and representation in scripted television.

Cynthia then outlines the focus of the TV Talk Shows series, which will explore the historical context, memorable moments, and surprising controversies surrounding unscripted hosts and guests. The episode concludes by acknowledging the pioneering achievements of Della Reese as the first black woman to fill in for Johnny Carson on The Tonight Show and Betty White's stance against the broadcast network executives who were reluctant to feature performers of color on her 1950s talk and variety show.

RESOURCES

Foundation Interviews - Della Reese on Guest Hosting “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson” - https://youtu.be/M8hfse64sFU?si=8cIu3DrRN2AIdiBL

The Television Academy Foundation – Della Reese - https://interviews.televisionacademy.com/interviews/della-reese

“He Stays”: Betty White refused to remove Black dancer from her show in 1954 - https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2022/01/01/betty-white-black-dancer-arthur-duncan/9067252002/

Retro Televisions – The Betty White Show (11-29-54) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7k23zM-eLoI

CBS Los Angeles KCAL - https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/women-more-represented-on-reality-tv-than-scripted-shows-sdsu-report-finds/

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

ATVH Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

View Details

Advanced TV Herstory’s commitment to connecting the dots of TV & feminism and American politics & culture continues with an examination of the pioneering women writers during the early days of TV.

My guest, Annie Berke, PhD, is the author of Their Own Best Creations: Women Writers in Postwar Television, part of the Feminist Media Histories book series by the University of California Press.

With a focus on 1949-1963, Dr. Berke’s foundational work appeals to scholars and students as well as others with an interest in gender roles, women in the workplace, and the cultural influence of women in media.

Along with a review of under-studied and influential women writers profiled in the book, our discussion leads to some interesting places, including the emergence of second-wave feminism and how postwar and current-day writers share many of the same struggles.

I know you’ll enjoy this fun and fast-paced episode. Thank you for listening!

CONNECT WITH ANNIE BERKE

Website - https://www.annieberke.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-berke-ph-d-a102509/

Instagram, X (Twitter), and Bluesky - @sayanniething

RESOURCES

Pioneer Peg Lynch - https://around.uoregon.edu/content/library-exhibit-celebrates-legacy-tv-pioneer-peg-lynch

The Broadcast 41 by Carol A. Stabile - https://broadcast41.uoregon.edu/

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

ATVH Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

View Details

Cynthia Bemis Abrams welcomes Victoria Riskin, a second-generation filmmaker with a rich Hollywood legacy. Victoria's parents—Robert Riskin, a prolific, Oscar-winning screenwriter, and Fay Wray, best known for her role in the original King Kong—were instrumental in shaping the classic years of the motion picture industry.

And Victoria has crafted an impressive career all her own. She is a producer, writer, digital magazine publisher, PhD in psychology, and past president of the Writers Guild of America (WGA). She shares her experiences as WGA president and explains how power has shifted over time to the imbalance that has writers and actors on strike now in 2023.

We also learn how Victoria’s father tried leveraging his success with the studios to improve conditions for writers in the 1930s, but ultimately joined the Screen Writers Guild (SWG) as an early, active member. And, on the lighter side, you won’t want to miss Victoria’s stories from her trip to China with Norman Lear, Mary Tyler Moore, Larry Gelbart, and Carl Reiner.

Victoria knows Hollywood from deep inside. No doubt you’ll enjoy the interesting history and fun stories she shares with us.

RESOURCES

Victoria Riskin's website - https://www.victoriariskin.com/

Fay Wray and Robert Riskin: A Hollywood Memoir - https://www.victoriariskin.com/index.php/about

Projections of America - http://projectionsofamerica.com/

The Last Best Year - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Last_Best_Year

Bluedot Living - https://bluedotliving.com/

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

ATVH Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

View Details

Labor Day 2023 will mark the major event of a combined strike of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors Guild—American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). Both unions are currently led by women: Fran Drescher, Meredith Stiehm, and Lisa Takeuchi Cullen.

Even prior to the two union merger in 2012, SAG and AFTRA had elected nine strong and inspiring women to lead their labor causes like health and pension benefits, residuals, and managing during COVID. The WGA, first led by a woman in 2001, represents writers on a myriad of issues like credit, contracts, and benefits.

Today, these unions are on strike, with primary issues of artificial intelligence to create content and fabricate performers, and how payment formulas for writers and performers will be commensurate with successful streaming. Since the WGA declared its strike and actors followed, Advanced TV Herstory has stood resolutely with all the talented creators. This episode tells of the dedication to workers’ rights and social progress within a distinct and complex business model.

AUDIO CLIPS & RESOURCES

Fran Drescher - https://youtu.be/J4SAPOX7R5M

Gabrielle Carteris - https://www.sagaftra.org/videos/president-gabrielle-carteris-discusses-sag-aftra%E2%80%99s-covid-19-efforts

RCA Selectavision commercial - https://youtu.be/dFtyMNTD2f4

ABC7 in Los Angeles - https://abc7.com/wga-writers-guild-strike-rally/13303288/

https://www.sagaftra.org/

https://www.wga.org/

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

ATVH Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

View Details

A lot has happened politically and culturally since this podcast launched eight years ago. In this anniversary episode, I celebrate a number of wins while also reflecting on the importance of learning from history to avoid repeating past mistakes.

For example, Lee Grant, an Oscar and Emmy-winning actress, overcame being blacklisted during the anti-Communist era. Her resilience and courage in speaking out against injustice serve as a lesson for today.

I also highlight the work of The Geena Davis Institute on Gender and Media, which has expanded its focus to champion inclusion of the six major identities of gender, race/ethnicity, LGBTQIA+, disability, age 50+, and body type in media and entertainment.

In addition to looking back on some of Advanced TV Herstory’s episodes from the past year, I celebrate ATVH’s inclusion in IMDb and the anticipation of reaching a new audience.

Because ATVH is not beholden to sponsors, I can proudly say that I provide an unfiltered view of both historical and current obstacles to full representation and valuation. Many of these obstacles are at the center of the ongoing strike by the Writers Guild and the use of artificial intelligence.

With a commitment to recognizing the importance of representation and critical thinking in the face of rapidly changing media landscapes, I thank you for your support of this podcast over the last eight years and I look forward to uncovering and sharing more untold stories of women in the year to come.

This is why I podcast.

MENTIONS AND REFERENCES

I Said Yes to Everything by Lee Grant - https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/18693908

Intimate Portrait - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0896232/

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ATVH

ATVH Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

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In the second of our two-part episode, host Cynthia Bemis Abrams continues talking with Elva Green about her book, "The Jeffersons: A Fresh Look Back," which offers insights, interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and rare photos from the iconic TV series.

Ms. Green reflects on one of the best episodes from the seventh season of the show, which featured a tour-de-force performance by Isabel Sanford (Louise Jefferson). We listen to classic interview clips: Marla Gibbs (Florence) assesses Ms. Sanford’s contribution to the series and Ms. Sanford recounts her professional friendship with Zara Cully (Mother Jefferson). We also look back at Ms. Sanford’s 1981 Emmy acceptance speech

As with other programs under the guidance of Norman Lear, “The Jeffersons” appealed to a wide audience and often tackled serious, ground-breaking subject matter. Please join us as we discuss its legacy.

SHOP AND CONNECT WITH ELVA GREEN

The Jeffersons: A Fresh Look Back

Eddie Green: The Rise of an Early 1900s Black American Entertainment Pioneer

https://bearmanor-digital.myshopify.com/search?q=elva+diane+green

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/elva.green.712/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/elva.green.712/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/elvagreen123/

AUDIO CLIPS

Isabel Sanford Emmy Acceptance Speech - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUfFd1vNS4I

Isabel Sanford on Zara Cully (and other castmates) - https://youtu.be/5wqimrfTBn0

Marla Gibbs on Isabel Sanford - https://youtu.be/6sdguNXxtBc

OTHER MENTIONS

John McWhorter, PhD - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_McWhorter

The Jeffersons: And the Doorknobs Shined Like Diamonds (S7 E13) - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0614811/

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner (1967) - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0061735/

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing by Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

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In this first of a two-part episode of Advanced TV Herstory, host Cynthia Bemis Abrams welcomes Elva Green to discuss her book, "The Jeffersons: A Fresh Look Back." Ms. Green shares her personal journey as a writer and the impetus for the book, which offers insights, interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and rare photos from the iconic TV series.

Ms. Green interviewed cast and crew members, including the legendary Norman Lear and the incomparable Marla Gibbs, who—after forming a bond with the author—agreed to write the foreword for the book. Ms. Green also speaks fondly of Berlinda Tolbert, Ernest Harden Jr., and others whose willingness to share stories and contacts enhanced her research and writing.

Ms. Green’s unconventional path to becoming an author began with her desire to inspire her grandson by writing about her father, Eddie Green, an early 1900s black American entertainment pioneer who achieved fame despite the challenges faced by African Americans in the first half of the last century.

Listeners are encouraged to shop both of Ms. Green’s books. They offer one-of-a-kind information for those interested in entertainment, black history, and well-crafted narratives. And be sure to tune into our next episode to learn more from Elva Green and her unexpected role in preserving the legacy of "The Jeffersons."

BOOKS BY ELVA GREEN

The Jeffersons: A Fresh Look Back

Eddie Green: The Rise of an Early 1900s Black American Entertainment Pioneer

https://bearmanor-digital.myshopify.com/search?q=elva+diane+green

AUDIO CLIPS

The Jeffersons: The Best of Florence - https://youtu.be/pmxflexREKc

Mother Jefferson Has a New Boyfriend - https://youtu.be/222kxW5mlbs

Lionel and Jenny Kiss & Make Up - https://youtu.be/OuOLbOp2PHE

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing by Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

View Details

Has “Cheers” aged well? Was Norm the norm in 1982? Was the toxic behavior in the show’s Boston-based bar a device to expose the destructive nature of misogyny or was it just a casual reflection of a patriarchal system?

Carla Tortelli and Diane Chambers, the barmaids in the first season of the show, served as sparring partners for their coworkers, customers, and each other. Carla was at home at "Cheers." Diane was a fish out of water. Carla and Diane could not have been more different. But Rhea Perlman and Shelley Long, the actors who portrayed Carla and Diane, both were incredible actors with excellent comedic timing.

Cynthia Bemis Abrams takes a closer at their work and celebrates their contributions as two of the strong, female characters that emerged on television in the 1980s. She discusses the interplay among the regular characters at the bar, the foundational toxic environment, and the influence of female writers and showrunners on comedies of the era.

MENTIONS & REFERENCES

ATVH Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Shelley Long interview - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNagwFVh9xs

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/

Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

PRODUCTION

Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/

Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

View Details

I am very excited to share the second of a two-part conversation with author and TV/film historian, Lee Gambin. His double-volume work, "Tonight, On a Very Special Episode: When TV Sitcoms Sometimes Got Serious," provides a launch pad for our thoughtful and fast-paced discussion of the issues and activists behind TV’s “very special episodes,” which date back 50 years or more.

These TV events—featuring familiar, beloved characters—mixed serious topics with comedy so effectively that, in many cases, activists were born, movements were started, legislation was passed, and minds were changed.

Legendary showrunners like Norman Lear and Linda Bloodworth-Thomason used the sitcom format to normalize awareness and discussion of race relations, women’s issues, representation, discrimination, divorce, alcoholism and drug addiction, sexual assault, HIV/AIDS, and LGBTQ rights.

Fronting these issues shaped our culture in ways that should not be lost to history. Join us for a discussion of the iconic episodes and the legends who made them happen, as well as how they continue to impact us today.

CONNECT WITH LEE GAMBIN

Tonight, On A Very Special Episode: When TV Sitcoms Sometimes Got Serious Volume 1: 1957-1985

Tonight, On A Very Special Episode: When TV Sitcoms Sometimes Got Serious Volume 2: 1986-1998

Cinemaniacs

SOUND CLIPS

Diff’rent Strokes: The Bicycle Man (S5.E16-17)

Designing Women: Killing All the Right People (S2.E4)

All in The Family: Edith’s 50th Birthday (S8.E4-5)

BOOKS / ARTICLES

Norman Lear Memoir - Even This I Get to Experience

PERTINENT EPISODES OF ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Designing Women 1, Body-shaming 0

Sports Night: More Relevant Than Ever

Eating Disorder Movies: TV For and About Women

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Website

Podcasts

Instagram

Twitter

Facebook

YouTube

PRODUCTION

Jahzzar on Free Music Archive

View Details

I am very excited to share the first of a two-part conversation with author and TV/film historian, Lee Gambin. His double-volume work, "Tonight, On a Very Special Episode: When TV Sitcoms Sometimes Got Serious," provides a launch pad for our thoughtful and fast-paced discussion of the issues and activists behind TV’s “very special episodes,” which date back 50 years or more.

These TV events—featuring familiar, beloved characters—mixed serious topics with comedy so effectively that, in many cases, activists were born, movements were started, legislation was passed, and minds were changed.

Legendary showrunners like Norman Lear and Linda Bloodworth-Thomason used the sitcom format to normalize awareness and discussion of race relations, women’s issues, representation, discrimination, divorce, alcoholism and drug addiction, sexual assault, HIV/AIDS, and LGBTQ rights.

Fronting these issues shaped our culture in ways that should not be lost to history. Join us for a discussion of the iconic episodes and the legends who made them happen, as well as how they continue to impact us today.

CONNECT WITH LEE GAMBIN

Tonight, On A Very Special Episode: When TV Sitcoms Sometimes Got Serious Volume 1: 1957-1985

Tonight, On A Very Special Episode: When TV Sitcoms Sometimes Got Serious Volume 2: 1986-1998

Cinemaniacs

SOUND CLIPS

Diff’rent Strokes: The Bicycle Man (S5.E16-17)

Designing Women: Killing All the Right People (S2.E4)

All in The Family: Edith’s 50th Birthday (S8.E4-5)

BOOKS / ARTICLES

Norman Lear Memoir - Even This I Get to Experience

PERTINENT EPISODES OF ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Designing Women 1, Body-shaming 0

Sports Night: More Relevant Than Ever

Eating Disorder Movies: TV For and About Women

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

Website

Podcasts

Instagram

Twitter

Facebook

YouTube

PRODUCTION

Jahzzar on Free Music Archive

View Details

In 1989, Oprah Winfrey produced and starred in the two-part TV miniseries, The Women of Brewster Place, which was based on Gloria Naylor’s award-winning debut novel. The book, and the movie, explore a variety of personal issues and social themes faced by seven African American women who live in an urban housing project.

When, just for fun, we asked the new artificial intelligence software, ChatGPT, to connect Oprah’s cultural influence with themes from the book/movie, the AI chatbot got it… sort of right. Sort of. It dispassionately summarized many of the challenges faced by the women in the story. And it mentioned Oprah’s commitment to highlighting personal and social issues. But ChatGPT failed to find the essential storyline.

And it’s no wonder. The online content about The Women of Brewster Place neglects the underlying racism that’s at work when urban planners and policymakers target the destruction of specific neighborhoods in the name of progress. As long as history is “written by the victors,” the online trough that feeds artificial intelligence will prevent AI, and the people who rely on it, from making the most crucial connections of all.

MENTIONS AND REFERENCES We encourage you to visit your local bookseller or library.

• Book by Gloria Naylor - The Women of Brewster Place
• Movie on YouTube - The Women of Brewster Place
• People Magazine Article - Oprah Goes Hollywood
• Book by Carol Stabile, PhD - The Broadcast 41
• Podcast Series (first of four) - Calculated Efforts to Preserve Power: TV Women Blacklisted
• Vulture Article - 30 Years Ago, The Women of Brewster Place Cracked Open the Door for Queer TV
• Vice Article - I’ve Made More Than 1,700 Wikipedia Entries on Women Scientists and I’m Not Yet Done

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY

• Website
• Podcasts
• Instagram
• Twitter
• Facebook
• YouTube

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On this episode of Advanced TV Herstory, we connect the dots between TV and feminism with American culture and politics by remembering the 1979 television miniseries, Backstairs at the White House.

The series is based on the New York Times bestseller by Lillian Rogers Parks, a seamstress in the White House from 1939-1961. Parks based the book on her own experiences and on those of her mother, Maggie Rogers, who, as a maid in the White House from 1909-1939, was encouraged by Eleanor Roosevelt to keep a diary of her time serving the various first families.

MENTIONS AND REFERENCES (We encourage you to visit your local bookseller or library.)

Jackie Kennedy - Interview with Sander Vanocur, NBC - March 1961 - https://youtu.be/j3ZvIzL1JbI

My Thirty Years Backstairs at the White House - by Lillian Rogers Parks in collaboration with Frances Spatz Leighton

Backstairs at the White House - TV miniseries (Part 1 of 4)- https://youtu.be/BIlFp_-mdXk

Michelle Obama - Speech at 2016 Democratic National Convention - https://youtu.be/4ZNWYqDU948

White House Historical Association - https://www.whitehousehistory.org

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS

Instagram: @advancedtvherstory

Twitter: @TVHerstory

Website: https://www.tvherstory.com/

Apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/advanced-tv-herstory/id1014759821

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TVHerstory/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

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As we wrap up our two-part In Memoriam for 2022 by honoring women with famous names and faces, we also pay tribute to those who were less visible yet made significant contributions to TV, movies, news, and science.

This celebration is the perfect time to reflect on the importance of acting as a champion for other women. Their success does not detract from our own—instead, it strengthens us all.

The wonderful women featured in this episode will continue to entertain and teach and inform us for decades thanks to syndication. They are why I podcast.

MENTIONS AND REFERENCES (We encourage you to visit your local bookseller or library.)

Women Who Reported Watergate (July 2, 2017 podcast) https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/women-who-reported-watergate

Audition: A Memoir by Barbara Walters https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2847470-audition

Kirstie Alley - List of Works https://www.biblio.com/kirstie-alley/author/15520

Nichelle Nichols on Martin Luther King, Jr. https://youtu.be/zrzygziT11I

Beyond Uhura by Nichelle Nichols https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/672094.Beyond_Uhura

Sacheen Littlefeather was a Native American icon. Her sisters say she was an ethnic fraud https://www.sfchronicle.com/opinion/openforum/article/Sacheen-Littlefeather-oscar-Native-pretendian-17520648.php

Louise Fletcher Wins Best Actress: 48th Oscars (1976) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGl5U7nNlkY

Dizzy & Jimmy by Liz Sheridan https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/dizzy--jimmy-my-life-with-james-dean--a-love-story_liz-sheridan/348349/

Reeling Back by Michael Walsh https://reelingback.com/articles/creative_women_needed

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS

Instagram: @advancedtvherstory Twitter: @TVHerstory Website: https://www.tvherstory.com/

Apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/advanced-tv-herstory/id1014759821

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TVHerstory/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

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Our In Memoriam episodes have become an annual tradition. As the universe of known, talented women in TV gets larger every year, so too does the number of women that we honor. In this first of two episodes, we highlight some of the women of music and theatre who made significant contributions to our culture and society. We lost some very big names in 2022, but as you’ve come to expect with these episodes, we also celebrate the talent and achievements of those who were not quite thought of as a “big name.”

REFERENCES AND MENTIONS

In Memoriam: Angela Lansbury / MSW

https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/in-memoriam-angela-lansbury-msw

Pat Carroll: Gertrude Stein was never a bore

https://www.csmonitor.com/1981/0108/010861.html

Debbie Allen Shapes a Different World

https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/debbie-allen-shapes-a-different-world

Olivia Newton-John - the Making of “Physical”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXitXrVsndg

Olivia Newton-John on Murphy Brown

https://youtu.be/YrwqwZ02gM0

Erica Gimpel on Twitter: @ericagimpel

www.freemusicarchive.org

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS

Instagram: @advancedtvherstory

Twitter: @TVHerstory

Website: https://www.tvherstory.com/

Apple podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/advanced-tv-herstory/id1014759821

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TVHerstory/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

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Mallory Lewis joins host Cynthia Bemis Abrams for a fun chat about her book, Shari Lewis and Lambchop: The Team That Changed Children's Television. Mallory's book, published by University of Kentucky Press in fall 2022, is a collection of stories from Shari's childhood and career as a businesswoman and multifaceted entertainer. While Shari Lewis died from cancer in 1998, Lambchop continues to charm audiences with the help of her sister, Mallory.

FULL VIDEO INTERVIEW

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7eYcoRGL70&t=263s

GET THE BOOK

Shari Lewis and Lambchop: The Team that Changed Children’s Television by Nat Segaloff and Mallory Lewis

UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY PRESS

https://www.kentuckypress.com/9780813196268/shari-lewis-and-lamb-chop/

Watch for the documentary, Shari and Lambchop, to be released in 2023.

CONNECT WITH MALLORY

TikTok: @yourfavlambchop

Website: https://mallorylewisandlambchop.com/home

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mallorylewisandlambchop

CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA

Instagram: @advancedtvherstory

Twitter: @TVHerstory

Website: https://www.tvherstory.com/

Apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/advanced-tv-herstory/id1014759821

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TVHerstory/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

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We celebrate the creative life and career of Angela Lansbury with Bridget Kies, Assistant Professor of Film Studies and Production at Oakland University in Michigan.

From MGM contract player to Tony-winning Broadway star to her role as Jessica Fletcher on Murder, She Wrote, Lansbury’s long and impressive career has touched generations of film, TV, and theatre goers.

Professor Kies' work has been published in numerous academic journals and edited collections. She is co-host of the Cabot Cove Gazette podcast and in 2023 will publish a book about Angela Lansbury and Murder, She Wrote.

Clip from S. 4, E. 20 Showdown in Saskatchewan.

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Celebrating the podcast's 7th complete year, Cynthia revisits highlights of the past year, muses on the state of TV and streaming today, and preaches the wisdom of owning physical copies of your favorites.

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Celebrating the podcast's 7th complete year, Cynthia revisits highlights of the past year, muses on the state of TV and streaming today, and preaches the wisdom of owning physical copies of your favorites.

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Liza Minnelli is celebrating 50 years since Cabaret, her big break film.TV revealed of Liza's talents as well as her love of performing which was not always detected on film. Cynthia spotlights Liza sharing the stage with Mikhail Baryshnikov, The Muppets, Goldie Hawn, Robert Plant, Guns & Roses, Shirley MacLaine and Diahann Carroll in a host of formats that showcased her dramatic, dancing and singing.

Resources include:

Lorna Luft's Me and My Shadows

https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/1061873.Me_and_My_Shadows

The Judy Garland Show Christmas Special https://youtu.be/oOmjvgaT9-A

The Muppet Show (Nov. 1979) Copacabana clip https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCGSZmTsX7o

The Dangerous Christmas of Red Riding Hood, or Oh Wolf, Peter Wolf https://youtu.be/DixzC8Fur5g

UK Daily Mail interview about the early days of HIV/AIDS https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2004484/Liz-Taylor-taught-live-life-Liza-Minnelli-pays-moving-tribute-friend.html

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Cold War espionage with an 80s feminist touch - The Americans (FX, 2013-2018) gave us a new form of anti-hero in Elizabeth Jennings, played by Keri Russell. Cynthia and guest author Linda Mizejewski discuss the award-winning series' women, its commitment to accuracy and the bold approach of depicting spies as real people. Linda Mizejewski's book The Americans, published by Wayne State Press https://www.wsupress.wayne.edu/books/detail/americans Slate's podcast series on The Americans https://slate.com/tag/the-americans

Advanced TV Herstory episode on Viewers for Quality TV https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/tending-the-fandom

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Cynthia recounts the lives and careers of talented TV women who died in 2021. While some died unexpectedly of disease, the long list features names of women who worked well into their golden years. Join this celebration of their impact on TV and come away with renewed energy to cheer on the amazing women in your own circle, while they're still around. The list includes: Betty White, Cloris Leachman, Jessica Walter, Cicely Tyson, Markie Post and Mary Wilson of The Supremes.

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This is the second of 2 episodes featuring a deep discussion with poet, author, and professor Shayla Lawson about 1983's Showtime worldwide stream of Diana Ross' concert in a summer deluge.

Lawson delivers a candid description of the herstoric concert's impact and what Diana Ross and her authenticity mean to women of color in Lawson's 2020 book, This is Major: Notes on Diana Ross, Dark Girls, and Being Dope .

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This is the first of 2 episodes featuring a deep discussion with poet, author, and professor Shayla Lawson about 1983's Showtime worldwide stream of Diana Ross' concert in a summer deluge.

Lawson delivers a candid description of the herstoric concert's impact and what Diana Ross and her authenticity mean to women of color in her 2020 book, This Is Major: Notes on Diana Ross, Dark Girls, and Being Dope.

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Cynthia delves into deep Hollywood history to help listeners understand and love Carrie Fisher's genius effort of the made for TV movie (2001) These Old Broads.

All in their late 60s, Debbie Reynolds, Shirley MacLaine, Joan Collins and Elizabeth Taylor look like they had a ball in this send-up of aging and the scandals of Hollywood's golden years.

Resources:

Unsinkable: A Memoir by Debbie Reynolds (2013)

LA Times, Scandal's History for "These Old Broads (Feb. 12, 2001)

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Cynthia pays tribute to the TV women in front of and behind the camera who passed away in 2020, including such big names as film & TV legend 104 year old Olivia deHavilland, actor/singer Ja'Net DuBois of Good Times, daytime's Marj Dusay, Glee's Naya Rivera and the woman who brought us The Magic School Bus, Joanna Cole.

Cynthia lists well known older women successfully leveraging social media and weighs in on #JanetJacksonAppreciationDay and the entertainment industry's treatment of Britney Spears.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2020_deaths_in_American_television

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Cynthia chats role models and memorable characters found in the 4-Female sitcom construct, with Summer Martin of The Unconventional Woman Podcast. Guest Wendy Burns-Ardolino contributes insights into what qualities and traits viewers look for in their role models and how 4 women characters offer fluidity to leading conversations.

Excerpts from Mara Brock-Akil, showrunner of Girlfriends and the Irish cast of Derry Girls with showrunner Lisa McGee (YouTube)

https://youtu.be/5y7jcmkotw4 (M Brock Akil)

Derry Girls https://youtu.be/bbjpEnH_Zb0

Wendy Burns-Ardolino's book TV Female Foursome and Their Fans https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/tv-female-foursomes-and-their-fans/

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In the 3rd of 4 episodes about role models and memorable characters, Cynthia and Summer delve deep into some of the most crafted, defined, distinct women characters to ever grace the dramatic small screen. They follow it up with a list of similarly refined, authentic real women – whose growth and stature have unfolded over the decades.

Dr. Camille Saroyan (Bones)

Chris Cagney and MaryBeth Lacey (Cagney & Lacey)

AnnaLiese Keating (How to Get Away With Murder)

Olivia Pope (Scandal)

Robin Roberts (Good Morning America)

Joy Reid (The Reid Out)

Gayle King

Oprah

Shonda Rhimes

Martha Stewart

__

Clip: Season 2 opener of Martha and Snoop’s Dinner Party

Music: Jahzzar's Take Me Higher (www.freemusicarchive.org)

Summer Martin of The Unconventional Woman podcast

www.tuwpodcast.com

Editing and sound design by Catherine Yang

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Deep chat with Summer Martin of The Unconventional Woman Podcast about role models & memorable characters and what they meant for us, our aunties, mothers and friendships.

We discuss the powerful impressions of Freddie Brooks of A Different World, The Flying Nun's Sister Bertille and Homeland's Carrie Mathison. Temple University student Maryam Muhammad adds her perspective on Cree Summer's Freddie Brooks.

- - - - -

Maryam Muhammad, student at Temple University and blogger at Medium, a place where writers, influencers and podcasters get the word out. Find her work at www.maryamazeeza.com –

Instagram: @NeptunesNegress and Twitter: @OilyEyelids.

Summer Martin, co-host and podcaster

Twitter @summerygory, Instagram: unconventional _woman

podcast https://www.tuwpodcast.com/

Claire Danes on Carrie Mathison - Showtime's Homeland YouTube Channel - S. 8 trailer

Freddie Brooks on A Different World S.6, E.1

Jennifer Keishin Armstrong, author of Mary and Lou and Rhoda and Ted.

Advanced TV Herstory Episodes

Women of MTM (1970-77) Pt 1

Women of MTM Pt 2 (Words, Casting, Fashion)

Women Writers of MTM Pt 3 (Treva Silverman)

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Deep chat with Summer Martin of The Unconventional Woman Podcast about role models & memorable characters and what they meant for us, our aunties, mothers and friendships.

We discuss the impact of Freddie Brooks of A Different World, Mary Richards of The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Cosby Show's Clair Huxtable and others on us and generations older and younger. Temple University student Maryam Muhammad adds her perspective on Cree Summer's Freddie Brooks.

- - - - -

Maryam Muhammad, student at Temple University and blogger at Medium, a place where writers, influencers and podcasters get the word out. Find her work at www.maryamazeeza.com –

Instagram: @NeptunesNegress and Twitter: @OilyEyelids.

Summer Martin, co-host and podcaster

Twitter @summerygory, Instagram: unconventional _woman

podcast https://www.tuwpodcast.com/

Chris Spags' YouTube Channel - Tami Taylor

The Cosby Show YouTube Channel - Night of the Wretched clip

- - - - -

Past relevant episodes of this podcast:

Jennifer Keishin Armstrong author of Mary and Lou and Rhoda and Ted:

Women of MTM (1970-77)

Women of MTM: Words, casting & fashion

Women Writers of MTM

Dr. Robin Means Coleman on Debbie Allen’s transformation of A Different World

Cagney & Lacey

6 Lost Episodes of Cagney & Lacey

Concept to Pilot: Cagney & Lacey

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When she starred in All-American Girl in 1994-5, Margaret Cho became a TV Herstory groundbreaker. All-American Girl was the first network sitcom to feature an all Asian-American cast. Cho discusses lessons from the series in depth with Ashley Pacini of The Reel Women and Cynthia.

This interview caps a summer series collaboration of Advanced TV Herstory and The Reel Women, a community that celebrates the successes of women in filmed entertainment.

Other topics:

How a white person can become better ally.

The PoC talent pipeline.

A stand-up comedian's schedule in lockdown.

The Margaret Cho (her podcast on Earios & a few of her guests).

Her 2002 book I'm the One I Want

Resources:

Margaret's website

The Reel Women

Jahzzar's Take Me Higher at Free Music Archive

Introductory shout out to Chicago's Arcus Behavioral Health & Wellness

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Sometimes we don't recognize or celebrate persistence while it's going on. This interview with Pepper Reed, part of the collaboration with The Reel Women, a community of women with careers in TV and film, is a testament to persistence.

In this episode led by Ashley Pacini, Pepper explains how writing and script supervising influence directing and why she chose the formal training that has prepared her to wear so many hats.

Ashley & Pepper discuss the positions for which living in Los Angeles or New York are essential, the power of networking and the importance of setting professional goals.

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3rd episode collaborating with The Reel Women profiling talented women in TV. Lawyer, teacher and playwright Chanel Glover of Los Angeles shares her projects building quirky stories about queer people of color (often women) and young people.

Glover tells her own story of exploring other careers and how writing has shaped her life. She weaves her background in advocacy into her writing and tells Cynthia and Ashley about real life experiences that are entertaining and insightful that should be brought to audiences.

Ashley Pacini of The Reel Women joins Cynthia for this episode. The Reel Women celebrates the successes of women in filmed entertainment.

https://www.chanelglover.com/

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Second in a series of profiles of careers that are rising despite the prevalence of -isms in the TV industry. Chicago-based Sanicole Young is a director, writer and cinematographer working on TV series and short films.

Sanicole, Cynthia and Ashley Pacini, of the industry networking group Reel Women, discuss Sanicole's path of experience and education at Columbia College in Chicago and her decision to remain in the Midwest, instead of moving to LA or NY.

Sanicole talks in-depth as well about her short film, Training Wheels and the power the 1997 film Eve's Bayou has had on her creative work.

Find Sanicole on Instagram and Twitter by her first name, Sanicole.

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Every year Cynthia provides an annual report of the podcast experience. Links below for previous eps.

She shares observations about the timeliness and relevance of the Broadcast 41 series and a conversation with Univ. of North Carolina professor and author Dr. Charlene Regester.

Cynthia offers up an item from the podcast bucket list (which may become an episode of its own soon) which has to do with a talented showrunner who was driven from the industry 30 years ago.

There's a book update and forecast about how collaboration with other like-missioned people and organizations will drive the coming year.

4th Anniversary Episode

3rd Anniversary Episode

2nd Anniversary Episode

1st Anniversary Episode

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First in a series of profiles of careers that are rising despite the prevalence of -isms in the TV industry. Danielle Earle is a producer and teaches high school in Orange, NJ.

Danielle, Cynthia and Ashley Pacini, of the industry networking group Reel Women, discuss her path of experience and education and the steady stream of work at her production company, PLEntertainment.

Danielle talks in-depth as well about her series Brooklyn is in Love, Shonda Rhimes and the opportunities of job-shadowing and interning she secures for her students and her go-to networking favorites:

NYC Women Filmmakers group (Facebook)

Black Film Space (Facebook) Hue You Know .. for BIPOC in Media (Faceboook) Writers Guild of America East For more insights into Shonda Rhimes' Year of Yes book that Danielle and Cynthia talked about, check out this episode from 2018.

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As streaming service Sundance Now unveils the Australian psychological thriller The Secrets She Keeps, co-star Jessica de Gouw talks with Cynthia about the series, her past roles in historical and fantasy dramas and the increasingly diverse world of international TV.

The Secret She Keeps trailer

Jessica's recent prominent roles in series produced in the US, UK and Australia include that of Elizabeth Hawkes in (2016) Underground , Wilhelmina "Mina" Murray in Dracula from 2013-14in 2019's The Hunting and Lucy Lindsay-Hogg in The Crown (2019)

Sundance Now is AMC Networks’ premiere streaming service for engrossing true crime, heart-stopping dramas and fiercely intelligent thrillers from around the world.

The Secrets She Keeps is based on a novel of the same name by Michael Robotham. Early in the episode, Jessica mentioned she has just finished viewing (& highly recommends) HBO's I May Destroy You.

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"A story is a story is a story." So says veteran TV writer Nina Bargiel who's been spinning live-action and animated yarns for years.

Nina is an LA-based TV writer and producer who currently writes on Mao Mao, Heroes of Pure Heart (Cartoon Network) and has other projects percolating. Nina describes her writing philosophy and goals, which focus on crafting stories in which kids see themselves, as well as are entertained. She and her brother co-wrote the coming-of-age bra episode for Lizzie McGuire, a 2001 Disney Channel classic. Earlier this month, Hilary Duff led the the cast for a Zoom table read/fundraiser of this episode.

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Writing, storytelling and 3-dimensional characters are some of the many topics author/TV producer April Smith and Cynthia discuss. April shares behind-the-scenes insight into writing & researching Mrs. America. We also go back 40 years to discuss #MeToo and a timeless Lou Grant episode.

Trailer: Mrs. America (Hulu/FX)

Resources: Lou Grant episode Harassment on YouTube

Douglass Daniel's Lou Grant: The Making of TV's Top Newspaper Drama

April Smith's website Aprilsmith.net

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Dr. Elana Levine and Cynthia wrap up an extensive chat about daytime dramas by talking about the cancellation of many beloved shows. We discuss advertising, the loss of broadcast TV's prevalence in daytime and what replaced the serial genre.

Dr. Levine is author of Her Stories (published by Duke University Press) and teaches at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

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Daytime changed TV herstory with long arcs about adoptions, reproductive rights and rape. Dr. Elana Levine shares examples of how key stories aligned with social changes from the 60s until today.

We also discuss the limited roles available for actors of color and how they often were positioned as secondary stories to to the white "super couple."

Enjoy audio context clips from As the World Turns, All My Children, The Young and the Restless and Ryan's Hope.

Dr. Elana Levine is a Professor of Media, Cinema and Digital Studies in the Department of English at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Levine's recently published Her Stories (Duke Univ. Press) forms the backbone of this 4-part series on soap operas.

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Dr. Elana Levine of the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee and author of Duke University Press' Her Stories shares insights into TV technology and artistic elements that upped daytime storytelling's game. We discuss how 1:1 conversations evolved to story arcs of General Hospital's "Summer on the Run," Nola's old Hollywood fantasies in The Guiding Light and other increasingly expensive and outrageous stories.

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Dr. Elana Levine's recently published Her Stories (Duke Univ. Press) forms the backbone of this 4-part series on soap operas. This episode includes a look at the formative pioneers of serial storytelling - Irna Phillips, Agnes Nixon and William Bell. Other topics covered who owned any given show and how that impacted business decisions and how technology changed storytelling.

Future episodes from this Levine interview discuss Super Couples of the 90s, fantasy and traumatic storylines, reproductive and feminist issues and the accelerated demise of many shows.

For more on Agnes Nixon, listen in on a 2017 podcast episode between Cynthia and Elana. Fans of All My Children and As the World Turns, check out a 2-part interview with two-time Emmy Award Winner Cady McClain (Dixie Cooney) from March 2020.

Dr. Elana Levine is a Professor of Media, Cinema and Digital Studies in the Department of English at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

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Some of the freshest works on TV today are the result of screen adaptations of best selling novels. Abbe Wright of Penguin Random House, who is also podcast host of The Adaptables and Read it Forward, discusses this current trend of adaptations from the publishing and storytelling perspectives.

Since the early days of TV, adaptations of stage and literature have delivered incomparable works to primetime viewers. We discuss the 1977 miniseries Roots, based on the book of the same name. Current works like Little Fires Everywhere, Normal People, and Big Little Lies (all written and backed by women) are achieving great success with a new approach to storytelling.

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Part 2 of a chat with Emmy-winning actor Cady McClain, known for her years as Dixie Cooney on ABC's All My Children, which explores Cady's decision to pursue directing and arts advocacy. Cady talks about artists' muses and how resilience can be found in the creative process.

Recent film Seeing is Believing: Women Direct can be seen at Seed and Spark.

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In her role as All My Children's Dixie, Cady McClain earned a place in TV Herstory for her award-winning acting. More than just half of a 90s "supercouple," Dixie was every woman.

In this first of a 2 part interview, Cady shares with us her early years in acting and her time on ABC's All My Children. Part 2 explores her roles behind the scenes as a filmmaker and advocate for women in storytelling.

Recent film: Seeing is Believing: Women Direct

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L.A. Law (1986-94) lived a glamorous, full life. The series pilot, written by Steven Bochco (Hill Street Blues) and Terry Louise Fisher (writer/producer of Cagney & Lacey), when viewed today is a time capsule of office life that reveals sexism, racism, and generational approaches to power.

Full of quality TV promise, L.A. Law launched with a bang. Why isn't it now celebrated for its transformational prowess? We cover that, too, and applaud Alfre Woodard's epic performance, which occurred early in her career.

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End of year lists that honor the memories of celebrities and prominent figures are a tradition that this podcast has passed up in recent years. A deeper look at the list of prominent TV women lost in 2019 calls out not just the well-known women - usually actors - but also those who built careers behind the scenes.

Join Cynthia in celebrating Katherine Helmond, Georgia Engel, Peggy Lipton, Valerie Harper, Doris Day, Carol Channing, Diahann Carroll, Gloria Vanderbilt, Beth Chapman, Beverley Owen, Toni Morrison, Cokie Roberts and more.

Cynthia also reveals 4 women whose work she finds inspiring, as each raises her voice: Jane Fonda, Ava DuVernay, Kathleen Turner and TCM's Sunday Night host Jacqueline Stewart.

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TV is once again attempting to bring legendary "girl detective" Nancy Drew to life. We dust off our very first episode for a look at past attempts to put the hugely popular Nancy Drew mysteries on the small screen. The book series' backstory is a fascinating look at ego & the evolution of publishing. Excerpts are included from Melanie Rehak's 2005 "Girl Sleuth: Nancy Drew and the Women Who Created Her."

We explore why the Sunday night series that paired actress Pamela Sue Martin's Nancy Drew with The Hardy Boys failed in 1977-1979 and how the books have impacted TV herstory.

Here are links for further reading:

"The Not So Hidden Racism of Nancy Drew" https://electricliterature.com/the-not-so-hidden-racism-of-nancy-drew/
"How does Nancy Drew connect to the books? Almost everything is different" https://www.bustle.com/p/how-does-nancy-drew-connect-to-the-books-almost-everything-is-different-19199448

"Why does it matter who wrote Nancy Drew anyway?" https://crimereads.com/why-does-it-matter-who-wrote-nancy-drew-anyway/ "Mildred Benson is dead at 96; wrote 23 Nancy Drew books" https://www.nytimes.com/2002/05/30/books/mildred-benson-is-dead-at-96-wrote-23-nancy-drew-books.html "The Mystery of Carolyn Keene" https://www.lib.umd.edu/nancy/influential-authors/carolyn-keene "The adventurous writer who brought Nancy Drew to life" https://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/adventurous-writer-who-brought-Nancy-Drew-to-life-180969479/ "The Stratemeyer Syndicate" https://etc.usf.edu/lit2go/collections/12/the-stratemeyer-syndicate/
Clips and Music:

Nancy Drew (The CW) Trailer HD https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYOK1K_04Gc "Uniq - Art of Silence" is under a Royalty Free music license.
Music promoted by BreakingCopyright: https://youtu.be/er--pnwFDgU 'Moody Swing' by Oshóva is under a Creative Commons license (CC BY 3.0)
Music promoted by BreakingCopyright: https://youtu.be/CPhnejWBYtc 'Malibu' by Scandinavianz is under a Creative Commons license (CC BY 3.0)
Music promoted by BreakingCopyright: https://youtu.be/iusKLrpij2w

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Refreshing the writing and timeline of a 2016 episode, Advanced TV Herstory examines the most basic elements of an event that changed the lives of American women.

It captivated millions of viewers and was talked about by millions more. Before #MeToo, Weinstein, Kavanaugh and Cosby, Anita Hill's testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee in 1991 brought the topic of sexual harassment and Clarence Thomas's fitness to be a judge into the conversation.

Episode provides historical context to Robert Bork's earlier nomination to the Supreme Court, and the roles of then-Senators Biden and Specter.

Additional info from two books

(1995) Jordan, Emma Coleman., and Anita Hill. Race, Gender and Power in America: the Legend of the Hill-Thomas Hearings. Oxford University Press

(1997) Anita Hill. Speaking Truth to Power. Anchor Books

Advanced TV Herstory's theme music can be found at Free Music Archive,

Music Take Me Higher by Jahzzar

Other music in episode is Uniq - Art of Silence:
"Uniq - Art of Silence" is under a Royalty Free music license. Music promoted by BreakingCopyright: https://youtu.be/er--pnwFDgU

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The topic of Hollywood Blacklisting has recently added a chapter - the impact it had on the budding TV industry, and more specifically, women.

Researched and backed by FBI files of author/scholar Dr. Carol Stabile (University of Oregon), this 4 episode series mentions names of talented women whose careers were maliciously ruined with the publication of Red Channels. Trumped up accusations, which later the FBI admitted were unfounded, were accepted as proof enough to break contracts, withdraw offers and freeze out women who otherwise would have changed the look, sound and depth of TV's first decade.

Episode 3, featured a frank conversation with author and scholar, Dr. Charlene Regester (of the Univ. of NC Chapel Hill) about how racism further changed the course of early TV.

Lillian Hellman on Dick Cavett 1973

Lillian Hellman's letter, read by Liza Minnelli (rare video of the 1974 telecast of the 1972 Off Broadway stage production in which actors portrayed blacklisted people from the entertainment world during the House Un-American Activities Committee proceedings).

• Carol Stabile's Broadcast 41 website & book info
• Charlene Regester's 2010 book African-American Actresses: The Struggle for Visibility 1900-1960
• Big Thinker Series hosted by The Ethics Centre (Eleanor Roosevelt Clip)
• Linda Bloodworth-Thomason guest column in The Hollywood Reporter (2018)
• Advanced TV Herstory Linda Bloodworth-Thomason Emerges from Exile

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This 4 episode series examines anti-communism/McCarthy-ism blacklisting 's impact on the careers of women who likely would have changed the look, depth and sound of TV.

Cynthia and author/scholar, Dr. Charlene Regester of Univ. of North Carolina have a frank conversation about how racism, stereotyped roles and Jim Crow laws delayed TV's depiction of African American life by more than a decade. This adds to the story of a previous podcast episode about TV's Single Women and how even in the 1980s, a TV series cast a black woman as a household domestic.

Charlene Regester (2010) African American Actresses: The Struggle for Visibility 1900-1960
Regester on North Caroline PBS discussing her book
Carol Stabile (2018) The Broadcast 41: Women and the Anti-Communist Blacklist
James Gavin (2010) Stormy Weather, The Life of Lena Horne
Advanced TV Herstory TV's Single Woman Caregivers & Gimme a Break
YouTube The Beulah Show (feat. Ethel Waters)

Audio archives of The Beulah Show

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The topic of Hollywood Blacklisting has recently added a chapter - the impact it had on the budding TV industry, and more specifically, women.

Researched and backed by FBI files of author/scholar Dr. Carol Stabile (University of Oregon), this 4 episode series mentions names of talented women whose careers were maliciously ruined with the publication of Red Channels. You’ll also hear from another author and scholar, Dr. Charlene Regester. In episode 3, listen in on our frank conversation about how racism, Jim Crow laws and segregation further changed the course of early TV.

Carol Stabile Broadcast41.com
Charlene Regester (2010) African American Actresses: The Struggle for Visibility, 1900–1960
Madeline Lee Gilford on YouTube
Ruth Gordon on Hugh Downs 1981

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The topic of Hollywood Blacklisting has recently added a chapter - the impact it had on the budding TV industry, and more specifically, women. Researched and backed by FBI files of author/scholar Dr. Carol Stabile (University of Oregon), this 4 episode series mentions names of talented women whose careers were maliciously ruined with the publication of Red Channels.

Stabile delivers quotes, right from FBI files she's requested for more than a decade, that assert that many of the charges and allegations that smeared these progressive women were unfounded or made up.

You’ll also hear from another author and scholar, Dr. Charlene Regester. In episode 3, listen in on our frank conversation about how racism, Jim Crowe laws and segregation further changed the course of early TV.

Carol Stabile Broadcast41.com
Lillian Hellman on Dick Cavett 1973

Lillian Hellman's letter, read by Liza Minnelli (rare video of the 1974 telecast of the 1972 Off Broadway stage production in which actors portrayed blacklisted people from the entertainment world during the House Un-American Activities Committee proceedings).

Ellen Schrecker (1999) Many Are The Crimes
Charlene Regester (2010) African-American Actresses: The Struggle for Visibility 1900-1960

Regester on North Carolina PBS

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Celebration of 4 years of independent podcasting about TV women - those behind the camera as well as in front of it. Cynthia's thanks her team of Jen Edds, Catherine Yang and Elsie Escobar and recaps highlights and changes made to the show's format and outreach.

She also does some deep thinking about social change, social media, feminism and the power of representation as the entertainment industry wrestles with hashtag movements #MeToo and #Times Up. Near the end, Cynthia reveals a big goal.

Audio clip was from June 2019 ESPN's "First Take" show hosted by Molly Qerim with Lavar Ball as a guest.

Advanced TV Herstory's theme music can be found at Free Music Archive,

Music Take Me Higher by Jahzzar

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Listeners of episodes 1 & 2 receive a full background of how cable evolved to have the financing and capacity to produce original content. This episode walks through a few series and channel milestones with scholar, author & podcaster Amanda Lotz, covers the financial incentives now in place that govern series production and syndication and finally, a short list of cable series and channels that are part of TV Herstory.

Find more at www.tvherstory.com

Learn more about Amanda Lotz, her books, articles and her podcast "Media Business Matters" at amandalotz.com.

Learn more about art historian, professor, author Emily L. Newman and her books at emilynewman.com.

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In this season dedicated to cable's growth and capacity to niche program content aimed at women, we'd be remiss if we didn't includes a look at the made-for-TV movie genre on eating disorders. Art historian, professor and author Emily L. Newman provides insights into the milestone movies and headlines of the 80s, 90s and recent years that contained bulimia and anorexia as plotlines. We talk about the influence of Cathy Rigby, Tracey Gold, Meredith Baxter and Karen Carpenter.

Learn more about art historian, professor, author Emily L. Newman and her books at emilynewman.com

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We need to be smarter consumers of media! This 400 level session on the evolution of cable (tech + the business structure) features insights from author, scholar, podcaster Dr. Amanda Lotz.

Find more at www.tvherstory.com

Learn more about Amanda Lotz, her books, articles and her podcast "Media Business Matters" at amandalotz.com

Learn more about art historian, professor, author Emily L. Newman and her books at emilynewman.com

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We need to be smarter consumers of media! This 400 level session on the evolution of cable (tech + the business structure) features insights from author, scholar, podcaster Dr. Amanda Lotz.

Find more at TVHerstory.com

Learn more about Amanda Lotz, her books, articles and her podcast "Media Business Matters"

Learn more about art historian, professor, author Emily L. Newman and her books

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What role does Judy & her series play in TV Herstory? Episode explores women storytelling, persistence, and sexism that serve as modern lessons about the power in and of TV, including one musical number from her December 1963 show, considered historic TV, about which few know.

Cynthia and Chicago-based, Emmy-nominated performer and Garland Scholar Angela Ingersoll exchange feminist insight.

www.angelaingersoll.com

Angela Ingersoll and Joey Luft, Mothers Day 2017 Show (YouTube)
https://youtu.be/dZZzqGnDPdc

Coyne Steven Sanders (1990) The Judy Garland Show: Rainbow's End https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/coyne-steven-sanders-2/rainbows-end-the-judy-garland-show/

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Judy's series served as a bridge of American talent, featuring stars of stage and screen at every point in their careers: Barbra Streisand, Ethel Merman, Mickey Rooney, Lena Horne, Lorna Luft, Liza Minelli, Diahann Carroll, June Allyson. These performances give us some moments in art and history allow a viewer to see her as a singer, comic and loving mother.

Cynthia and Chicago-based, Emmy-nominated performer and Garland Scholar Angela Ingersoll exchange feminist insight..

www.angelaingersoll.com

Lorna Luft (1999) Me and My Shadows https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1061873.Me_and_My_Shadows

Coyne Steven Sanders (1990) The Judy Garland Show: Rainbow's End https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/coyne-steven-sanders-2/rainbows-end-the-judy-garland-show/

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Cynthia and Chicago-based, Emmy-nominated performer and Garland Scholar Angela Ingersoll exchange feminist insight into this important television series. Its production value and budget broke records and ushered in a whole new look and feel for TV entertainment. Lack of leadership and network support begs questions that leave Cynthia and Angela perplexed, angry and a bit sad.

www.angelaingersoll.com

Coyne Steven Sanders (1990) The Judy Garland Show: Rainbow's End https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/coyne-steven-sanders-2/rainbows-end-the-judy-garland-show/

Advanced TV Herstory 2017 episode Twilight TV Career of Joan Crawford http://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/twilight-tv-career-of-joan-crawford

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As we come upon the 50th anniversary of Judy’s passing, one look at the books, plays, and documentaries about her life reveals a certain pattern: primarily written and produced by men. Her life was surrounded by men.

Cynthia and Chicago-based, Emmy-nominated performer and Garland Scholar Angela Ingersoll exchange feminist insight, discuss the importance of Judy's musical selections found in the series and marvel at the singer's triumphs and tragedies.

www.angelaingersoll.com

Coyne Steven Sanders (1990) The Judy Garland Show: Rainbow's End https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/coyne-steven-sanders-2/rainbows-end-the-judy-garland-show/

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Judy Garland's career in the 50s was made up of concerts, films and having kids. We explore why she resisted TV until her concert performances resurrected her career and confidence, resulting in a historic contract with CBS. Cynthia and Chicago-based, Emmy-nominated performer and Garland Scholar Angela Ingersoll exchange feminist insight.

www.angelaingersoll.com
1955 Ford Star Jubilee TV show https://youtu.be/m0AzC0cUrjU

Coyne Steven Sanders (1990) The Judy Garland Show: Rainbow's End https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/coyne-steven-sanders-2/rainbows-end-the-judy-garland-show/
Category: Careers & Legacies

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No-spoil review of a rare holiday classic in which two women feature prominently in the plot! Based on Elmo Shroppshire's song of the same name from the mid-90s, the made-for-TV movie's plot and quirkiness may just earn it cult status.

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Why is America so divided and how did we get here? Cynthia probes that question from a TV Herstoric perspective.

Also, be the first to hear how changing the podcast's distribution schedule will enable the team to research, develop and promote the relevant matters of TV women and representation, sexism, racism, feminism, equity and power.

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After 40+ years of effort, the number of highly visible women covering TV sports is minuscule. Podcast/radio regular Jim Jax participates in herstoric look at legends & workhorses who made a difference. We discuss their achievements & career paths.

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The series Charmed, originally airing from 1998 to 2006 on the WB, can now be seen as a TV classic. Charmed tells the story of the three (sometimes four) Halliwell sisters who discover that they're powerful witches with the duty to fight all matter of evil.

With the 2018 reboot of Charmed premiering just earlier this week and declaring itself a "fierce, funny, and feminist reboot of the original," it's a prime opportunity to ask the question: is the original Charmed actually feminist? How does it compare to the reboot?

In this episode, we discuss Charmed's roots, its central themes, and the unwavering activism of two of its main actresses, Alyssa Milano and Rose McGowan, in the #MeToo movement. On top of that, we include a very brief history of feminism with reference to an amazing article by Constance Grady written for Vox.com.

Enjoy & thanks for listening!

Links

History of waves of feminism
https://www.vox.com/2018/3/20/16955588/feminism-waves-explained-first-second-third-fourth

Charmed actresses reaction to reboot
https://news.avclub.com/none-of-the-original-charmed-actresses-are-into-the-reb-1828306336

Brad Kern's Firing
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/10/02/arts/television/brad-kern-cbs-fired.html

Tarana Burke & MeToo
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/20/us/me-too-movement-tarana-burke.html

Alyssa Milano & MeToo
https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2017/dec/01/alyssa-milano-mee-too-sexual-harassment-abuse

Rose McGowan Memoir
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/arts-and-entertainment/wp/2018/01/29/11-big-revelations-from-rose-mcgowans-memoir-brave-including-her-childhood-in-a-cult/?utm_term=.77ef5bd17c0e

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Actor Briana Venskus of Agents of SHIELD, Grace and Frankie, Walking Dead and Outcast shares oodles of wisdom about fan engagement, progress of LGBTQ storylines & casting and the strength of streaming platforms in attracting transformative writers. Venskus is part of Clexacon, an international LGBTQ women's media experience with major events in Nov. 2018 and April 2019.

@thevenskus on Twitter

@Houseof Venskus on IG

Clexacon

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Headlines in late summer 2018 caught me at my core - prompting me to realize why we cherish some of the finest writing & acting onTV - from Murphy Brown and Designing Women. We DO need to pay closer attention to the power and influence of media. Linda Bloodworth-Thomason's guest column in The Hollywood Reporter sheds light on her creative exile, suffered at the hands of CBS' Les Moonves.

Resources:

The Hollywood Reporter Linda Bloodworth-Thomason guest column(Sept 12, 2018)

2016 Podcast episode: Designing Women 1, Bodyshamers 0

2017 Podcast episode: Designing Women's Earnest NYE

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Whether you've ever watched Aaron Sorkin's 1998-2000 classic series Sports Night or not, this episode explains its 2018 relevance and calls for a reboot. We recently reviewed a sexual harassment plot from That Girl (1967) & found a similar scenario in Sports Night... which leads us to pondering the journalism's commitment to changing workplace harassment.

Resources

Advanced TV Herstory Episode 3: Sports Night (1998-2000)

Advanced TV Herstory Episode 84: That Girl and Sexual Harassment

January 2018 Sports Business Daily

December 2017 Julie DiCaro

June 2018 The Hollywood Reporter

June 2018 New York Magazine

July 2018 Corporate Dispatch

May 2018 Forbes

October 2017 ABC News

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In taking a look at Jeanine Furino's book All the Single Girls, the lead character single woman caregiver has evolved over 60 years. This episode looks at its historical context of 50s and 60s society as well as 1981's Gimme A Break!, which re-introduced us to a mammy character. Dr. Jennifer Fuller of Miami University of Ohio shares her thoughts.

Jeanine Furino's All the Single Girls

Jennifer Fuller, Ph.D, Miami of Ohio

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From Dancing with the Stars to her latest documentary, Nevertheless, Producer, director in both TV & film Sarah Moshman tells stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Join us as we discuss funding, Netflix, representation, worldwide impact, privilege & unity. Learn more about Moshman & her work.

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Women writers & directors bring a distinct lens to their jobs, so too have Dorothy Swanson and Liz Prugh led fan movements in ways that have benefited many. Hear more about how Swanson's "Viewers for Quality Television" grassroots efforts organized fans in the 80s & 90s to encourage and save excellent programming. Liz Prugh and her website, www.PureFandom.com is having similar impact, using a totally different set of tools.

LINK https://www.purefandom.com/

Resources: Dorothy Swanson's (2000) book

2018 documentary United We Fan, learn more on Facebook

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America's TV landscape was changing rapidly in the 70s. Popular characters in Norman Lear's portfolio of shows who went on to star in spinoffs. From The Jeffersons to Sanford & Son, black performers created memorable characters, bringing decades of stage and film experience to the small screen.

At Indianapolis' Pop Con, June 2018, podcasters Martha Southgate and Jen Edds lend voices in this salute to unsung talent.

Martha from Southgate Media Group

Jen from The Brassy Broadcasting Co.

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Three years since publishing our first episode, we're lighting candles & making a wish. This anniversary edition briefly reviews show changes made this year, with a focus on content about leadership, persistence and achievement.

We also share more about the work that goes in, behind-the-scenes, to producing content you'll hear nowhere else. Thank you for listening & making this podcast the best it can be!

365 x 3 thanks to:

Jen Edds and David Brown, audio wizards,

Catherine Yang, video director

Elsie Escobar, podcast consultant

those who've been interviewed, consulted or collaborated with us,

and most importantly, listeners across 5 continents!

Like our theme music? It's Take Me Higher by Jahzzar. Find it at Free Music Archive

Copyright: Attribution-ShareAlike: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

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Season 1 (1966-67) of TV Classic That Girl delivered an all too familiar story line. Guest star Carroll O'Connor played an opera singer with intentions on getting Ann Marie's attention in exchange for an interview. What ensues is a good look at how sexual harassment was written as a conflict by mid-century male writers.

Resource: Time Magazine's A Brief History of Sexual Harassment in America Before Anita Hill April 2016 by Sascha Cohen

http://time.com/4286575/sexual-harassment-before-anita-hill/

Marlo Thomas' Growing Up Laughing (2010)

Stephen Cole's That Girl: The Unofficial Companion (1999)

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This is beyond Green Acres! It's time we talk about complex women characters; those called "unlikable" who strive to do good or carry out justice, but take alternative approaches.

Guest Dr. Molly Brost (University of So. Indiana) discusses anti-heroines, top characters, traits & Marvel's Jessica Jones. Also, how streaming and cable have expanded the range of women characters to include action-heroines, anti-heroines and the unlikables.

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Author Jeanine Furino shares insight into her term, "Feminerd" and TV's single women characters who best fit the description. We talk about Feminerds that blossom professionally and find love and happiness, like Liz Lemon and Leslie Knope.

Furino goes out on a limb about Liz Lemon's impact on workplace fashion.

Order Furino's book All the Single Girls

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MTV's Daria gave representation and voice to women and girls who are smart, discerning and impatient. It aired 1997-2002, but the series impact is felt today in the action and leadership of feminist movements creating change across all aspects of American culture. Even if you've never seen a Daria episode, this episode will drive you to start streaming it from MTV.

Guest perspective & memories from Justine Gendron of The Cutaways Podcast and Chris Revill of Let's Chat with Chris Revill.

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Interview with Bill Jankowski, who worked with Anna "Patty" Duke to document her experiences and observations working with greats from film, stage and TV. Duke shared her talents with audiences, earning an Oscar & pre-TONY for her performances in The Miracle Worker, and of course made all sorts of TV Herstory with her iconic series, The Patty Duke Show.

We discuss her thoughts on famous people she worked with as well as mending regrettable moments and fractured relationships that occurred during manic bipolar phases, prior to her diagnosis. Bill gives backstory to the book's Gloria Vanderbilt foreward and how he brought her final thoughts to print following her untimely death at 69 in 2016.

In the Presence of Greatness (2018) by Anna "Patty" Duke and William Jankowski

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Interview with Bill Jankowski, who worked with Anna "Patty" Duke to document her experiences and observations working with greats from film, stage and TV. Duke shared her talents with audiences, earning an Oscar & pre-TONY for her performances in The Miracle Worker, and of course made all sorts of TV Herstory with her iconic series, The Patty Duke Show.

We discuss her thoughts on famous people she worked with as well as mending regrettable moments and fractured relationships that occurred during manic bipolar phases, prior to her diagnosis. Bill gives backstory to the book's Gloria Vanderbilt foreward and how he brought her final thoughts to print following her untimely death at 69 in 2016.

In the Presence of Greatness (2018) by Anna "Patty" Duke and William Jankowski.

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Storyteller extraordinaire, showrunner & human being Shonda Rhimes dropped a lot of leadership & life in her 2015 book Year of Yes.

Shonda lessons like knowing your audience, managing change and work-life balance get talked through. There are also a few calls to action to help Shonda & women in all industries continue breaking glass ceilings.

Also mentioned:

Beckhard-Harris Change Model

Martha and Snoop's Potluck Dinner Party (VH1)

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NY Times best selling author Jennifer Keishin Armstrong dishes the details on her June 2018 book, Sex and the City and Us. Just as she did in her previous books on The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Seinfeld, Armstrong delivers the full story of SATC's inspiration, creation, evolution, and epilogue.

Interview discusses fashion and Patricia Field, writing and Amy B. Harris and how they contribute to the HBO series' (1998-2004) legacy. We delve into the series' economic force and worldwide impact, changing the way women relate to one another, boundaries and taboos and introducing regular, realistic gay characters.

https://jenniferkarmstrong.com/

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Depending on your hours spent on TV, you may remember characters who came across as searching for or wishy-washy about life goals. We follow up with Jeanine Furino, author of (link below) All the Single Girls and conclude this very realistic role is more prevalent today.

https://www.amazon.com/Retro-Lover-Presents-Single-Girls/dp/0999642901

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Fascinating conversations took place at Barnard College's (NYC) Athena Film Festival last month about women, representation & the power of inclusion at all roles of storytelling. Plus how we can change today's norm. Themes and storytelling at film festivals are universal, so their application and intersection with TV is what prompted me to share observations. Athena founder Melissa Silverstein of Women & Hollywood was interviewed for episode: Ten Years of Women and Hollywood. Quick takes on documentaries: Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story and I Am Evidence, produced by Law and Order SVU's Mariska Hargitay through her Joyful Heart Foundation. Leaders of stage, digital, academia & film addressed "revising the Canon" - & how we shift the acceptable norms of storytelling.

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What's with reboots & refashioning movies and TV series of the 70s, 80s & 90s? Will audiences expect reboots to surpass the originals?

One Day at a Time ran for 204 episodes through the late 70s and early 80s. Producer Norman Lear used the novelty of a working single mother of 2 teen to address coming-of-age social topics. Netflix & Lear have "refashioned" the premise with modern twists.

Leading this new One Day at a Time series is 86 year old Rita Moreno, an award-winning American treasure and our most prominent Latina actress.

Books mentioned

Rita Moreno's Memoir

Norman Lear's Even This I Get to Experience

Mackenzie Phillips High On Arrival

Mackenzie Phillips Hopeful Healing: Essays on Managing Recovery

Valerie Bertinelli's four books

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Loyal listeners! Chart the podcast's future a bit by helping us find large & small opportunities for improvement.

Podcast Listener Survey (click here)

Every survey that's completed is important, as is your time. Complete a survey & receive a pair of Advanced TV Herstory coasters! Include your U.S. mail address in Question 9

THANK YOU!

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Interview with Jeanine Furino, author of All the Single Girls, a look at 60 years of television's depiction of unmarried women in women-centric series.

5 years of resources, research

Themes

• Career Woman
• Woman Who Wants to Marry
• Feminerd
• Unsure of What She wants
• Retired Woman
• Caregiver
• Working Mother

All the Single Girls is available on Amazon, hardbound and e-book and Barnes & Noble online.

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(Chicago, IL) — Advanced TV Herstory, the podcast that presents the achievements and persistence of women in and of television announced its sponsorship of the 2018 Athena Film Festival at Barnard College (NYC).

“Supporting the Athena Film Festival fits squarely with Advanced TV Herstory’s mission. We share the calling to celebrate the work of talented women, their leadership, achievement and persistence that helped build our culture. As women again progress to roles of visible producer, director and writer, we must keep telling the stories,” podcast producer Cynthia Bemis Abrams explained.

Advanced TV Herstory joins Artemis Rising Foundation, Amazon Studios & Lifetime Television Network in sponsoring the February 22–25 film festival on the Barnard College Campus. The event, attended by women filmmakers from around the world, is hosted by the Athena Center for Leadership Studies.

“Advanced TV Herstory is well-known in the podcasting community for its deep research and knowledge of American culture, TV and women. When it comes to matters of representation and changing the narrative about women as media creators, the lines between film and TV are almost irrelevant. It’s this area of representation, where it doesn’t matter what form of media you’re talking about, film, TV, radio or news, women’s voices are barely heard. And the stories and lessons of those who’ve gone before… pretty much forgotten,” Abrams explained.

The festival includes premieres and screenings of films made by women, including 2017 box office smashes LadyBird and Wonder Woman.

Contact: advancedtvherstory@gmail.com

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Interview with Karen Romanko, author of Television's Female Spies and Crimefighters is a fun walk through 50 years of series and characters.

Romanko shares background, life-long interest in TV & processes for how she wrote the book.

Series we touch on: The Mod Squad and Peggy Lipton as Julie Barnes, Honey West starring Anne Francis, Police Woman, Cagney & Lacey, Charlie's Angels, Rizzoli and Isles. The list goes on!

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Associate Producer Monica Rivera shares her deep interest in The Honeymooners & it's nothing short of amazing. Hear about how it so richly influenced this Gen Xer’s urban upbringing and how Audrey Meadows' "Alice" to Jackie Gleason’s "Ralph Kramden" - was another unsung talented feminist from TV’s first generation.

Rivera also produces "You Wanna Do What?" a podcast that challenges listeners to step up and realize their dreams.

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American TV storytelling sometimes struggles with a good New Years plot.

Or it did until Linda Bloodworth-Thomason fired up her typewriter in 1989 to deliver the January 1, 1990 episode of Designing Women entitled “The First Day of the Last Decade of the Entire 20th Century.”

It is pure art, as performed by the four original actresses: Dixie Carter, Delta Burke, Jean Smart and Annie Potts. It’s written by creator and showrunner Linda Bloodworth Thomason, directed by co-creator husband Harry Thomason.

Yup, this was the one that included Charlene's dream with Dolly Parton. And then there’s the hair…

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Still pondering what to get that hard-to-buy-for TV fan in your life? This podcast has your back, walking you through 5+ great gift ideas used in producing past episodes. All are classics or discuss classics! Designing Women, Diana Ross, Sports Night, a book about the making of The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Kim Field's just-released autobiography, Blessed Life.

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The Facts of Life & Living Single fans, enjoy a candid walk down memory lane in this interview with 40 year TV veteran Kim Fields. From parenting to finding voice, confidence and strength in this demanding world, our conversation covers it all, yet still leaves more to be discovered in her just-released autobiography, Blessed Life.

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A few decisions transformed "A Different World" from a struggling, rudderless sitcom to the classic it became. Much of that was due to Debbie Allen stepping in as creative force and aligning the set, characters and plots to align more closely with an authentic Historically Black College & University (HBCU) experience.

Listen to the University of Michigan's nationally recognized Dr. Robin Means Coleman recount her research, which is found in essay form within Beretta Smith-Shomade's book Watching While Black: Centering the Television of Black Audiences.

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Southgate Media Group podcast marathon, Elgin, IL

Feb. 26, 1996 CBS Monday night line-up, 4 women-centric sitcoms

Elizabeth Taylor's "Black Pearls" perfume line launch

The Nanny, Fran Dresher, 3rd season - directed by Dorothy Lyman

Can't Hurry Love, one season, starring Mariska Hargitay and Nancy McKeon

Murphy Brown, 8th season episode co-written by Diane English and Sarah Dunn

High Society, one short season starring Mary McDonnell and Jean Smart.

Cross promotion genius

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Special live taping at Chicago's iO Theater, PodSlam is a fundraiser for pediatric cancer (Connor's Cure) & the V Foundation

Women wrestling on TV, frequent plot during the 70s & 80s; good vs. evil, Americans vs. Russians

Physical conflict, agency, defense, aggressiveness - all real aspects of life that we SHOULD be able to see women on TV express.

Resurgence: Netflix series GLOW (2017)

Vintage: Laverne & Shirley, season 3 episode 2; The Bionic Woman, season 2 episode 3; Dynasty, season 3 episode 23

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Norman Lear & Tandem Productions winning streak

All in the Family > Maude > Good Times (1974-1980)

1965 Federal Report: “The Negro Family: The Case for National Action”

Good Times family structure: single mother or nuclear family

Esther Rolle & John Amos stand firm

6 difficult seasons

Esther Rolle's lifetime record of civil rights activism

Key resource: Christine Acham's Revolution Televised: Prime Time and the Struggle for Black Power, (University of Minnesota Press, 2005)

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International understanding of American feminism with Austrian cultural studies student Julia Krassnik

Susan Sontag's 1972 article on stereotypes

Timing and ensemble cast of Battlestar Galactica 2004-9

Roslin character's defiance of stereotypes

Roslin character's interest in power & Lean In's "tiara syndrome"

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How the ASPCA landed McLachlan

Record-setting amount raised through a PSA

Tactics that raised visibility & invited discord

Bottom line

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Lessons learned in 2 years

Holidays that appear in TV plots: Christmas, not Mothers Day

Themes:

Woman's right to make her own health care decisions (Sissy Spacek's TV Movie & China Beach)

Daytime dramas & spectacles (Agnes Nixon, Levine's book & "Vulture Culture")

Careers & Legacies (Latina actress Marlene Forte, ventriloquist Shari Lewis, awesome feminist Dinah Shore)

Writer for TV (interviews with Susan Silver and April Smith)

Politics as seen in Geena Davis' Commander in Chief, Maude & the voice of Rosie O'Donnell and the women TV journalists who reported on Watergate scandal.

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Novelist April Smith got her start telling stories on TV for award winning shows like Lou Grant, Cagney & Lacey and Chicago Hope.

Writing short stories in Boston

It's not what you know, it's who you know - and who you know who knows you're a smart writer.

James at 15/16

Lou Grant

Cagney & Lacey (writer & producer)

Chicago Hope

Movies of the Week

Novels

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Barbara Walters, Lesley Stahl & Connie Chung are the women who reported on the Watergate Scandal for the national news networks.

Representation of women in journalism

Walters ascends from Washington bureau to co-anchor of The Today Show

Stahl & Chung careers emerge out of Affirmative Action Hiring

Resources:

Audition: A Memoir by Barbara Walters (2008)

Reporting Live by Lesley Stahl (2000)

Watergate's Legacy and the Press by Jon Marshall (2011)

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UPN's strong line up of African-American centric programming in the late 90s & 00s.

Tracee Ellis Ross led ensemble cast

Discussion with podcasters Stephanie Williams and Elizabeth Ajunwa of Let Go Let Flo

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For more than 45 years, ventriloquist Shari Lewis (1933-1998) educated and entertained audiences on TV.

Lamb Chop, Charley Horse and Hush Puppy taught us simple humor, conflict resolution and a host of essential social and cognitive building blocks.

Children's mental health professional Dwight Hurst joins in the conversation about this talented woman's evolving career. Hurst produces The Broken Brain podcast which can be found on the Core Temp Arts Network.

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Background

Developing successful niche fan site The Concluding Chapter of Joan Crawford

Veracity of details in FX's Feud: Bette and Joan

Crawford's appearances on TV - why & what

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Our 2017 Mother's Day - Women in TV tribute is to Florence Henderson (1934-2016), who portrayed the woman who sits atop every TV blogger's list. Carol Brady. Of the Brady Bunch.

Humble beginnings on NY stage

2012 memoir Life Is Not a Stage: From Broadway Baby to a Lovely Lady and Beyond

Barry Williams (Greg Brady) fling was a hoax!

Henderson's insight into Carol Brady's legacy from 40 years of correspondence & fan contact

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Memoir Hot Pants in Hollywood: Sex, Secrets & Sitcoms

Susan Silver & I discuss writing for TV's The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Maude and Square Pegs.

People in the industry

Women behind the scenes of TV today

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Romper Room as regionally syndicated children's show, early Baby Boom

Sherri Finkbine - Arizona market Romper Room "teacher"

Thalidomide to relieve symptoms of morning sickness

Medical decisions

Made for TV Movie A Private Matter starring Sissy Spacek retells the story

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Highlights from an interview with Melissa Silverstein

Founder of Women and Hollywood

Worldwide network of entertainment leaders who share her passion

Steps podcast listeners can take to make a difference.

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Ann Curry's 10 years as face of news on The Today Show

Matt Lauer chemistry

Jane Pauley's forced departure in 1989

Bryan Gumbel's spin of Pauley departure

ABC's Kelly Ripa about voice, managing the message and taking risk.

Resource: Brian Stelter's (then a reporter for the New York Times) 2013 book, Top of the Morning: Inside the Cutthroat World of Morning TV.

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China Beach (1988-1991) was a high quality, expensive series about the Vietnam War as seen through eyes of American women. This podcast episode is about"Holly's Choice" from third season, which featured Ricki Lake as Holly, the donut dolly

Drama unfolds in reverse, a powerful writing tactic if it executed well, which it was. We explore the many layers of meaning stories of war often weave, this time the difference of value of military lives and civilian lives, as seen through the lives of medical professionals, soldiers and women.

Marg Helgenberger earned an Emmy for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series. Cynthia discusses her excellent acting and impeccable hair!

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Progress for Latinx performers on TV has been a long time coming. This interview with Cuban-born actress Marlene Forte (http://marleneforte.com/) gets real and detailed about her persistence, to advocate and rise. You'll love her voice and energy!

You've seen Marlene on TV many times, in current or recent TV series APB, Altered Carbon, The Fosters and Fear the Walking Dead.

We talk persistence, friends and representation

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It was really fun to talk TV and the women in and of TV with Chris Revill on his popular podcast "Let's Chat!" Chris is a consummate host. At the end of the visit, he got to do the production - which is the podcast equivalent of doing dishes.

Enjoy!

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Interview with Dr. Elana Levine, Background and path to academia

Previous books: (Editor) Undead TV: Essays on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Cupcakes, Pinterest, and Ladyporn,

(Author) Wallowing in Sex: The New Sexual Culture of 1970s American Television and Legitimating Television: Media Convergence and Cultural Status

Book currently in final stages of editing Her Stories: Daytime Soap Operas and US Television History.

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Dinah Shore: Profile in feminism (though she claimed she wasn't a feminist)

Performing at young age and in college (Vanderbilt University)

Standing with Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole & other black performers to ensure respectful treatment and airtime on TV and radio

Daytime Emmy Awards: 1974 for Dinah's Place, 1976 for Dinah?

Primetime Emmy Awards: 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1970 + 4 nomination

Godmother to women's golf (LPGA) & increased women player pay by fusing her relationship with national sponsors to televised golf tournaments. Shore is the only non-player inducted into the LPGA Hall of Fame.

The Dinah in Palm Springs

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Guest Ann Rosenquist Fee, MFA, a fashion observer, blogger, author/editor & arts non-profit executive

Influence from TV to fashion merchandising and design

60s Patty Duke, Barbara Stanwyck, sew at-home patterns

70s Susan Dey, Cher

80s Christina Applegate & where are all the young women on TV? Did they just disappear?

90s Cast from A Different World, Robin Roberts,

00s Ally McBeal cast teaches us the professional workplace no longer has just one uniform; Hillary Duff as Lizzie McGuire targets the pre-teen fashion with branding aplomb.

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Betwitched aired 1964 to 1972 as a consistently strong TV series.

Established 2nd generation Hollywood veteran Elizabeth Montgomery starred as witch Samatha Stevens, along side two actors who played her mortal husband, Darren. Montgomery was married at the time to William Asher and both served as the series producers.

The backstory of this episode is that it's the result of an LA-based high school writing submission process. Noted woman writer and co-creator of Cagney & Lacey, Barbara Avedon, helped develop the script.

Holiday episode (airdate Dec. 24, 1970) boldly addresses series underlying message of diversity and tolerance for a nation that was immersed in change.

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Career profile of Agnes Nixon, including interview with media studies professor Elana Levine, PhD of University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee

Nixon (Northwestern University) legacy of daytime drama show creation

Approach to storyelling

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Aired for single season, during the Bush administration

Woman VP ascends to presidency

Balance of sinister & good

Geena Davis, woman surrounded primarily by men

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Maude character was spin off from All in the Family, a Norman Lear production

Bea Arthur's theatrical chops

Plots touched on every controversial topic of the day & was a sought-after cameo role for big name stars.

Norms & values discussed across the generations - Maude, daughter Carol (played by Adrienne Barbeau) & grandson Philip.

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America’s EveryWoman, Rosie O’Donnell

Humble beginnings,

Comedy roles in sitcoms & A League of Their Own

1996-2002 award winning talk-variety show

Burnout, followed by a publishing career

Books: Celebrity Detox (2007)

Billie Jean King, Donald Trump and beauty pageants

The View, Barbara Walters, Alpha Women

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Daytime (audience-participation) shows from the 90s & 2000s, analyzed and cataloged by media studies experts Kathalene Razzano, Loubna Skalli and Christine Quail.

In their book, Vulture Culture: The Politics and Pedagogy of Daytime Television Talk Shows, look at “a culture that has its own logic, topicality, values, market and audiences.”

Maury Povich, Jenny Jones, Judge Judy: Misogynistic themes about self-control, paternalism, self-esteem

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Memories of teachers good and scary.

Quite a highlight reel w/ extra attention to extraordinary performances, positive messaging & quirky style.

Annalise Keating, Viola Davis' alter ego in How to Get Away With Murder; Hayley Mills in the forgotten Good Morning, Miss Bliss.

Room 222

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Susan Silver, noted pioneer comedy writer of The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Maude & Square Pegs

2016 Presidential Election coverage by women reporters & analysts

Ana Novarro of CNN

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What I’ve learned in producing these segments.

Struck by what I don’t find, in conducting research.

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15th & final season of NBC's ER brought the accomplished Angela Bassett to lead the ensemble cast.

Season begins with exposition of staff turnover.

Workplace culture & tone set by Bassett's character Dr. Cate Banfield.

Incredibly backstory that builds complex, intense Banfield character.

Flashback to Dr. Mark Greene - bittersweet wisdom.

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Murphy Brown & creator Diane English - Season 4, unplanned pregnancy.

Colleen Dewhurst as Murphy's mother Avery Brown.

Dan Quayle comments about Murphy's story arc and perception of fatherhood.

Classic ensemble comedy.

Poignant performance by Candice Bergen AND her hair.

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ER - award winning & new concept medical show

All star cast through the years

Representation of women in medical profession

Carol Hathaway - nurse, supporting medical students she knows she's smarter than

Susan Lewis - woman physician character stereotyped in situations & arcs

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MTV launched careers beyond the 5 VJs. Cable TV's coverage of middle America plugged MTV directly into consumer living rooms

Original format "Popclips" - brainchild of Monkee & genius Mike Nesmith; Sexism in the industry that still isn't discussed

Profiles of women on the business side, agents of performers, video artists & a look at how Martha Quinn and Nina Blackwood were hired.

Resource: I Want My MTV: the Uncensored Story of the Music Video Revolution by Craig Marks and Rob Tannenbaum

Note: At one point, I suggest that the battle-tested video vet Sharon Oreck has enough stories to write a book. Well she did, in 2010. It's called Video Slut: How I Shoved Madonna Off an Olympic High Dive, Got Prince into a Pair of Tiny Purple Woolen Underpants, Ran Away from Michael Jackson's ... So I Could Bring Rock Videos to the Masses.

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Anita Hill became a household name in an instant.

Nationally televised hearings were booster rockets for C-SPAN.

#69 in American Rhetoric's Top 100 Speeches of 20th Century.

Aggressive questioning from men of both parties.

Hill's work and legacy.

Contiributor to 2003 Sisterhood Is Forever: The Women's Anthology for a New Millennium

Author of 1995 Race, Gender and Power in America: The Legacy of the Hill-Thomas Hearings

Author of 2011 Reimagining Equality: Stories of Gender, Race and Finding Home

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Emergence of women in title roles - mid 70s, Title IX, the ERA

Barney Rosenzweig & Aaron Spelling

Pamela Sue Martin's walk out on the Nancy Drew (1978) set

13 episodes of Mrs. Columbo - spin off from an unseen character from the series Columbo. Actors Kate Mulgrew & Peter Falk were about 35 years apart in age.

Kate Mulgrew sheds light in her memoir Born With Teeth (2015).

Charlie's Angels & Kate Jackson's influence.

No Cagney & Lacey without Charlie's Angels

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This 2016 episode was published just weeks before Anna "Patty" Duke's unexpected death. Duke, winner of an Academy Award, multiple Emmys and honored (pre-Tonys) for her Broadway performance of Helen Keller in "The Miracle Worker," performed for 60 years.

In addition to her screen work, her1987 best selling memoir "Call Me Anna" candidly discussed bipolar disorder/manic depression. This was before Carrie Fisher shared similar stories in the mid-90s. Audio from YouTube uploads from Duke's awesome Phil Donohue Show appearances 1987

Screen Actors Guild presidency

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It's all in the sound! Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady & pioneering communicator. How often have we gotten to hear her speak (only a bit scripted)? She appeared on Frank Sinatra's Show appearance in 1959 and recites a poem in a voice that sends chills...

Just 15 years later, Betty Ford, unapologetic feminist catapulted to the role of First Lady. Learn how the resignation of Vice President Spiro Agnew, led to Cong. Gerald Ford's (MI) appointment.

In August 1974, President Nixon's resignation elevated VP Gerald Ford to the presidency and with him was Betty, his true partner. Betty cast a new mold for First Ladies, with her outspoken activism on health, addiction and women's issues.

Resources: Blanche Wiesen Cook's Eleanor Roosevelt: Volumes 1 & 2

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Unscripted viewing of highlights of Super Bowl Halftime Shows t

Performances by 6 women, all available on YouTube. 

Omitted performances by major artists: Tina Turner, Mary J. Blige, Brittany Spears & Carol Channing because they either performed as a medley of talent or in the case of Ms. Channing, the video just isn’t available.

1982 with the Up With People performance.

1992 was the salute to the Winter Olympics that concluded with a performance by Gloria Estefan, 1996 Diana Ross arriving in a helicopter.

2003 halftime stages that featured Shania Twain and No Doubt, led by Gwen Stefani. Madonna’s in 2012 and Beyonce & Destiny’s Child in 2013.

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"It was like Nixon going to China."

Commentary by guest & media/gender scholar Wendy Burns-Ardolino;

Season 4 of Designing Women.

Delta Burke's weight gain, tabloid harrassment.

Rumors of Burke being "difficult to work with"

Linda Bloodworth Thomason writes "They Shoot Fat Women, Don't They?" & Burke sends TV's first direct message about bodyshaming to the America.

Resources: Delta Burke's 1998 Delta Style: Eve wasn't a size 6 and neither am I

Wendy Burns-Ardolino's (2015) TV Female Foursomes and Their Fans: Featuring the Golden Girls, Designing Women, Living Single, Sex and the City, Girlfriends, Cashmere Mafia and Hot in Cleveland

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Wendy Burns-Ardolino Professor at Grand Valley State University (MI)

Background

Research & interest for her 2015 book TV Female Foursomes and Their Fans

4-female theory

Example shows

Living Single - different in many ways

Yvette Lee Bowser as seasoned showrunner

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Lucy left this world as a bit of a mystery. She left so much unexplained, kept wisdom to herself (or at least kept it closely held).

Kennedy Center Honors House Un-American Activities Committee > Ronald and Nancy Reagan > Divorce; DesiLu Studio settlement > Kindred spirit Carol Burnett > Suffering no fools, including Dick Cavett > Barbara Walters and the game face > Advocating for Emmy Award for Writing > Viv tells stories > Bette Midler in awe

Great resource: Stefan Kanfer's Ball of Fire: The Tumultuous Life & Comic Art of Lucille Ball.

• Two TV interview clips (Johnny Carson Tonight Show 1969 and a Barbara Walters Special 1977) retrieved from YouTube contain background noise that we were unable to filter out.

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Perhaps finest 90 minutes of video ever. Big concert mishaps from the past. On-stage leadership, simply Supreme. The crowd, the exit, the concert the next day. Where were the lawyers?

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Chief (female) writer for The Mary Tyler Moore Show; Comedy from a woman's perspective; Emmy TV Legends interview 2007

Bumped into James L. Brooks, moved to Hollywood; CBS transitions away from Green Acres and the Hillbillies

Excerpts from Jennifer Keishin Armstrong interview & what she learned researching Mary and Lou and Rhoda and Ted: And All the Brilliant Minds Who Made The Mary Tyler Moore Show a Classic

Development of characters Lou, Ted, Georgette...

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Interview with author Jennifer Keishin Armstrong about her book Mary and Lou and Rhoda and Ted: And All the Brilliant Minds who Made The Mary Tyler Moore Show A Classic

Part 2 of 3/ Writers Susan Silver, Jenna McMahon, Gail Parent, Marilyn Suzanne Miller, Monica McGowan Johnson, Gloria Banta and Pat Nardo.

Sybil Adelman, writer of classic Mary-Rho banter; Charlotte Brown, Rhoda showrunner. Casting perfection by Ethel Winant. Leslie Hall, curator of the Mary look and Mimi Kirk, fashionista for Rhoda

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Guest Jennifer Keishin Armstrong; Background, Northwestern University. Resource: Jennifer Keishin Armstrong (2013) Mary and Lou and Rhoda and Ted – and All the Brilliant Minds Who Made the Mary Tyler Moore Show a Classic.

Women behind the scenes enthusiastically agreed to be interviewed for book. > The Rhoda look, Chuckles the Clown funeral

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The Movie-of-the-Week Pilot with Loretta Swit as Cagney. Limits with MASH contract. Auditions by prominent TV/film actresses, Meg Foster gets the nod. Powerful writing, ever-changing timeslot.

Canceled with a caveat > Foster out, Gless in. It's a really great story!

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Picks up from podcast discussion of leadership growth of Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson (The Closer Pt 1, Seasons 1-4)

Introduction of Capt. Sharon Raydor, played by Mary McDonnell. Style differences. Marriage challenges, alcoholism. Niece Charlie (played by Sosie Bacon) as parenting test. Are Johnson & Raydor modern day Cagney & Lacey?

Ambition & succession > Burnout - psychological thriller as series ended

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4 woman ensemble in hour long drama. Obscure, only 2 seasons on DVD, some on YouTube. Emmy Awards for cast  & crew

The 4  sisters, what have they been up to? Swoosie Kurtz, Patricia Kalember, Sela Ward and Julianne Phillips. Role of Beatrice - Elizabeth Hoffman - feminism by generation

Plots including interracial and inter-faith marriage, three plane crashes, menopause, foster parenting the son of a deceased patient, surviving a coma - list nearly never ends.

Wonderful escapist drama from a woman's POV

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The first ever women's Buddy/Cop show. Rosenzweig builds vision on Charlie's Angels. Barbara Avedon and Barbara Corday study work environments of police women. Reluctant financial backing

Loretta Swit, who could only be in the pilot. Tyne Daly, Broadway veteran; Pilot earns big ratings

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Children's television as generational identifier; Bubbles, Blossom & Buttercup - traits and voice talent behind them.

Creator Craig McCracken backstory. Controversy among feminists. Controversy among elementary school principals. Plots that depict agency, control, compassion, conflict

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Emmy award-winning Hill Street Blues, from the era of Quality television

Representation of women in law enforcement (uniformed) and law

Characters of Lucy Bates and Joyce Davenport provided moral & ethical voice in arcs and storylines. 2 women characters rarely in same scene. Not THAT much airtime each week.

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Serial drama genre's appearance in prime time in the 70s: Dallas and Falcon Crest

Audience bait - acclaimed film actresses Barbara Bel Geddes and Jane Wyman (bios)

Comparison of roles - older woman with quiet power vs. older woman with vocal, aggressive agency. Representation of older woman

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Debbie Allen, actress, choreographer, business-owner, director, producer, writer. Growing up in the segregated south. Influenced by her mom

Howard University. Role of Lydia Grant in Fame the Movie, then the TV Series. Fame plots - urban teen, coming-of-age. Emphasis in A Different World

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Winnie Holzman, lead writer. Paley Center interview with Claire Danes & Bess Armstrong

Claire Danes' Angela is a teenage philosopher & asker of rhetorical questions. While much of the short-lived series' stories revolve around timeless teenage angst, there's an embedded perspective of Holzman, as female storyteller. This podcast episode explores mother-daughter relationships of the mid-90s, early days of the internet's arrival into households, but before social media and phones changed family life.

Stay with this early episode of our podcast for one person's theory on what halted production in light of cancellation

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King emerges as "Mother Freedom"

Reigning women's tennis champ Margaret Court loses to Bobby Riggs on Mother's Day. Competition with no assurances; Akin to the Super Bowl

Resource: Selena Roberts' 2005 A Necessary Spectacle: Billie Jean King, Bobby Riggs and the Tennis Match that Leveled the Game

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Show biz bug. Choosing to be childless

Life With Elizabeth - being the titled female in a comedy (1953-55) & a feel for where SueAnn Nivens came from. The Betty White Show x 4

Life with Allen Ludden: Game show & Hollywood power couple. Ensemble comedies: Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Golden Girls & Hot in Cleveland. - Resources: Betty White, An Intimate Portrait, Memoir, If You Ask Me (And Of Course You Won't), 2011

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Kyra Sedgwick as Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson

TNT Original Series - acclaimed and high ratings. Personal and professional growth. Resource: The Leadership Challenge by William Kouzes and Barry Posner

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Sports Night - time capsule show during cable news' heyday & early days of the internet.

Felicity Huffman character - strong woman leader. Robert Guillaume character - mentoring leadership & journalistic integrity

Fight against corporate decisions. Advancement of women in male-dominated field. Serious issues covered in comedy

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Five generations of American women have been depicted in TV. Five generations of women have been influenced by impressions of other women they've seen on TV. 

This was the podcast's initial mission and focus - summer 2015.

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Teen fiction in the 30s & stringent standards for the girl detective

Warner Brothers attempt to put Nancy Drew on the silver screen

Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries on Sunday nights in 1977-79: DISASTER

Pamela Sue Martin bolts for Playboy and ends up a Dynasty Carrington.

Resource: Melanie Rehak's 2005 "Girl Sleuth: Nancy Drew and the Women Who Created Her."