Advanced TV Herstory

Welcome to Advanced TV Herstory, the podcast that connects the dots of TV & feminism and American politics & culture. We tell the stories of women in TV who have had a profound impact on the confidence and aspirations of generations of girls and women.

We highlight the pioneering journalists, talented actresses, and gutsy writers who challenged societal norms and provide historical context for their achievements within the cultural and political trends of the time. By exploring the past, we ensure that the struggles, triumphs, and milestones of these women are not lost to history.

Hosted and produced by television scholar Cynthia Bemis Abrams, Advanced TV Herstory is more than just a podcast. It is a research-based examination of the evolution of television and women in our society. Each episode is an opportunity to inspire listeners to believe in themselves, challenge norms, break barriers, and shape the future of television and our world.

Learn more and subscribe to our newsletter at www.tvherstory.com/.

Bewitched's Holiday Ep "Sisters at Heart"

Dec 14, 2016

Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams recounts an important and progressive holiday episode of the series, Bewitched, which aired 1964 to 1972. Cynthia first details background on how the series's development, with its Hollywood veteran Elizabeth Montgomery, along side two actors who played her mortal husband, Darren. Montgomery...

Daytime Storyteller & Showrunner Agnes Nixon

Nov 26, 2016

Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams talks with media studies professor Elana Levine, PhD of University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee about the remarkable career of daytime drama showrunner and writer Agnes Nixon. Cynthia and Elana discuss the influences and education at Northwestern University that led Nixon to become a prolific...

Geena Davis as Commander in Chief (2005-6)

Nov 5, 2016

Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams takes a deep look at a series that only ran for a single season, 2005-2006, Commander in Chief. Cynthia recounts how it aired during the Bush administration and is one of the few characters who, as a woman vice president, ascends to presidency. Without revealing spoilers, Cynthia weighs in...

Maude: TV's Timeless Feminist Icon

Oct 15, 2016

Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams digs into the highly original and occasionally controversial character of Maude Finley of "Maude," a series that was spun off from "All in the Family." Cynthia details Bea Arthur's theatrical chops and reputation that made her Lear's top choice for the role. Cynthia also touches on the...

Unsinkable Rosie O'Donnell

Oct 7, 2016

Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams offers up a biographic profile of TV's "EveryWoman" Rosie O'Donnell. Cynthia details O'Donnell's humble beginnings and her early comedy roles in sitcoms that landed her a part in the film, "A League of Their Own." Cynthia provides background into the occasionally controversial, award-winning...